New Bedford Man Accused of Lewd Acts on Dartmouth Trail

DARTMOUTH (WBSM) — Dartmouth Police detained a New Bedford man recently for allegedly exposing himself to undercover police detectives at a Dartmouth park.

According to Dartmouth Police, detectives from the Community Impact Unit (CIU) were conducting an undercover investigation into reported suspicious activity at Harry Reynolds Park, located at 443 Old Fall River Road.

Complaints of Lewd Activity at the Park

Police have been investigating numerous complaints of “acts of lewdness” and individuals exposing themselves on the walking trails of the park. Back in May, police arrested a Dartmouth man for similar crimes. Police learned through investigation that people are using social apps “to facilitate meetings to engage in sexual activity” at the park.

READ MORE: Dartmouth Man Arrested for Exposing Himself, Committing Lewd Acts at Public Park

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How Undercover Detectives Made the Arrest

On Wednesday, November 26 at about 2:15 p.m., detectives saw a man, later identified as Francisco Tavares, 61, of New Bedford enter the walking trails. Two undercover detectives then entered the same trail. According to police, Tavares approached the detectives, engaged them in a brief conversation, and then pulled down his pants and fully exposed himself.

Charges the Suspect Will Face in Court

The detectives then identified themselves and detained Tavares. He was released at the scene and will be summonsed to New Bedford District Court for charges of open and gross lewdness, and lewd, wanton and lascivious conduct.

Police Response to Ongoing Park Issues

“This type of activity continues to be a problem at Harry Reynolds Park,” Dartmouth Police Chief Brian P. Levesque said. “We will continue to work diligently to combat these issues and keep our parks safe and welcoming for everyone in our community.”