Manhattan Beach police conducted a sex sting at a public bathroom on the beach on Marine Drive after local lifeguards alerted them of suspicious activity at that location. According to a CBS News report, police said the men were frequently using the facility, returning to the location, and loitering in the area. City maintenance staff also found sexually explicit graffiti and holes that were drilled into the partitions of the bathroom stalls.
Police detectives apparently started to monitor web sites and chat rooms where there were discussions about the “Marine Bathroom,” which was described as a meeting place for sexual activity. As a result, 18 people were arrested after police set up a series of sting operations. The men who were arrested were between 21 and 59 years old. The charges included soliciting, lewd conduct in a public place, and indecent exposure.
“Stings” or “raids” are common tools used by local law enforcement officials. There is often room for misunderstanding or wrongful arrests to take place in such situations. For example, an individual may get arrested simply because he or she happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
If you are facing serious sex crime charges, it is critical that you seek the counsel of an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer who will help protect your rights. A knowledgeable lawyer will examine all the details of the case, including how the surveillance was set up and if any rights were violated in the process.
The experienced Manhattan Beach sex crime defense attorneys at Sitkoff & Hanrahan have been successful at getting similar charges dismissed or reduced. If you or a loved one is facing lewd conduct or other sex crime charges, please contact us at (866) 430-8383 for a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation.