Man Accused Of Inappropriate Behavior With Children At Park

PETALUMA, CA — Police said Monday a Petaluma man was arrested on suspicion of annoying or molesting children in an incident Jan. 26 at a local park. Police identified the arrestee as Gregory Duke, 36, and said they responded to Leghorns Park at 2:22 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26 when a parent called to report a man at the park was acting inappropriately with children, Petaluma police Sgt. Lance Novello said in a news release.

"The father of one of the children reported the male was being 'overly friendly' with and possibly touching children, as well as wearing skin tight, see-through long John type pants," Novello said. "The father confronted the male and waited for police to arrive."

According to the sergeant, officers contacted Duke and "confirmed his questionable attire."

"He acknowledged playing with the children and attempting to teach them tennis skills," Novello said.

Officers then interviewed several children — ranging in age from 5 to 11 years old — and parents who were present in the park, police said.

"Their accounts were similar, and any touching was via a tennis racket or hands," Novello said. "However, Duke’s behavior made all feel uncomfortable and several described him as being sexually aroused during the contacts."

Duke was booked into Sonoma County jail that same day on suspicion of annoying or molesting children, the sergeant said, noting that a record check showed Duke had no prior, documented history of similar behavior.

Jail records Monday showed Duke remained jailed in lieu of $85,000 bail. He is due in court Friday.

Police on Monday asked anyone with further information regarding Duke or the allegations against him to call the Petaluma Police Department at 707-778-4372.

Photo courtesy Petaluma Police Department