Sandy, Utah — A 31-year-old man was arrested Saturday after allegedly being seen engaging in lewd behavior near a public park in Sandy, where children were playing. The incident unfolded at Scott Cowdell Park, located at 8920 South and 120 East, when a witness reported seeing a man, later identified as Victor Anthony Tapia, a registered sex offender, openly masturbating in the bushes near a canal adjacent to the park.
According to police reports, the caller notified authorities of the troubling scene around 3:30 p.m. Upon arriving at the park, officers located Tapia, who, when questioned, allegedly told police, “I’m masturbating,” in a spontaneous admission. The officer’s report indicated that Tapia’s actions were clearly visible from a nearby public trail, located approximately 30 feet away, and he had a direct view of the playground area.
Tapia, who was already known to law enforcement as a registered sex offender, allegedly made further statements to officers, revealing that he had been released from jail just 15 days earlier. According to the report, Tapia said, “for what I’m doing right now,” referring to the lewd act he was engaged in at the time.
When Tapia attempted to stand up, officers observed that his pants were nearly falling down. Tapia was taken into custody and booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on charges that included felony lewdness involving a child with prior offenses, sex offender violation, and misdemeanor intoxication.
Tapia’s arrest marks the latest incident in a series of criminal behaviors that have resulted in his placement on the sex offender registry. Authorities noted that Tapia’s prior convictions for similar offenses highlight the ongoing risk he poses to public safety. Law enforcement remains committed to investigating the case further and ensuring that appropriate legal measures are taken.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant in public spaces, especially those frequented by children.