FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — Sunday marks the latest arrest in a string of indecent exposure incidents near a nude beach in St. Lucie County.

The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office (SLCSO) said the arrest occurred around 2:15 p.m. on November 2, when deputies from the Patrol Operations Bureau were conducting foot patrols in the beach and dune areas. A deputy stationed atop the observation tower noticed a man in the dunes “enjoying some alone time.”

A second deputy approached and confirmed the behavior, leading to the arrest of Eric James Rhoads, 41, of Hobe Sound. Deputies reported finding a personal lubricating product in his pocket, according to the news release.

The sheriff’s office said Rhoads was arrested for indecent exposure – vulgar public nudity (1st Offense) and remains in custody at the St. Lucie County Jail.

This arrest follows two similar incidents reported last week.

On October 29, six people were arrested for unauthorized nudity at the Little Mud Creek Boat Ramp beach and surrounding areas north of the beach.

{p}As part of ongoing enforcement efforts, deputies announced on Thursday that they made two additional arrests. The SLCSO said Daphne Gay Duck, 62, and John Wayne Lorton, 66, were charged with Indecent Exposure for violating county ordinances regarding public nudity outside of the designated zone. (SLCSO){ }{/p}

{p}As part of ongoing enforcement efforts, deputies announced on Thursday that they made two additional arrests. The SLCSO said Daphne Gay Duck, 62, and John Wayne Lorton, 66, were charged with Indecent Exposure for violating county ordinances regarding public nudity outside of the designated zone. (SLCSO){ }{/p}

Then, on October 30, deputies detained two other people north of Blind Creek Beach after complaints of lewd behavior near the Little Mud Boat Ramp. Those arrests sparked a warning from the Sheriff’s Office and an increase in patrols to curb inappropriate activity in areas adjacent to the designated nude beach.

{p}As part of ongoing enforcement efforts, deputies announced on Thursday that they made two additional arrests. The SLCSO said Daphne Gay Duck, 62, and John Wayne Lorton, 66, were charged with Indecent Exposure for violating county ordinances regarding public nudity outside of the designated zone. (SLCSO){ }{/p}

{p}As part of ongoing enforcement efforts, deputies announced on Thursday that they made two additional arrests. The SLCSO said Daphne Gay Duck, 62, and John Wayne Lorton, 66, were charged with Indecent Exposure for violating county ordinances regarding public nudity outside of the designated zone. (SLCSO){ }{/p}

The sheriff’s office emphasized that while Blind Creek Beach is clothing-optional, lewd or vulgar acts are illegal and will not be tolerated.

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“Our beaches are meant to be enjoyed, they must be enjoyed responsibly,” officials said in a statement. Patrols will continue to ensure the area remains safe and family-friendly.

Authorities also reminded visitors that entering or walking within the sand dunes is prohibited. These protected zones are clearly marked and play a critical role in preserving fragile coastal habitats.

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