A coalition of local residents has accused the City of Seattle of neglecting to address what they describe as widespread public masturbation, indecent exposure, and other criminal activities at Denny Blaine Park. The group, known as Denny Blaine Park for All, has initiated legal action after neighbors reported witnessing and recording men engaging in masturbation during daylight hours. These incidents reportedly occurred on park benches, sidewalks, and even outside private residences. In a statement released Wednesday, the coalition described these behaviors as “persistent, aggressive, and illegal.”
Denny Blaine Park is recognized as a popular nude beach and a hub for the LGBTQ community in Seattle. The park previously sparked controversy over plans to add a playground, which were ultimately scrapped after advocacy from the queer-led group Friends of Denny Blaine, who argued that changes could compromise the park’s reputation as a safe space for free expression.
While nudity is not prohibited in Washington, Seattle police clarified that there are laws against indecent exposure. This misdemeanor requires evidence of lewd or obscene behavior for law enforcement to take action.
Last week, Denny Blaine Park for All expressed frustration over the city’s inaction despite years of complaints directed at the Parks Department, City Council, and Mayor’s Office. The group noted that city officials have considered implementing a “public masturbation deterrent infrastructure” instead of enforcing existing laws.
The coalition is calling on the city to uphold its own Code of Conduct and allocate resources to enhance safety at Denny Blaine Park. Their lawsuit seeks the temporary closure of the park if the city cannot guarantee a safe environment for the public. A communication manager for the City Attorney’s Office indicated on Wednesday that they had not yet received the lawsuit, which may be due to the typical delay in processing such filings.
