Search underway for man accused of touching himself at Gallatin public pool

Police said the man laid next to and stared at a female at the pool, making her uncomfortable.
WSMV4's Brendan Tierney reports.
Published: Jun. 5, 2023 at 7:40 AM CDT|Updated: Jun. 5, 2023 at 5:50 PM CDT

GALLATIN, Tenn. (WSMV) - Police are searching for a man who allegedly touched himself inappropriately while staring at a woman at a Gallatin public pool, according to the Gallatin Police Department.

On May 29, the man allegedly went to the Civic Center’s outdoor pool and paid to enter. Police said he then laid down next to a female and stared at her, making her uncomfortable.

The female moved seats, and the suspect followed, finding a spot beside her once again. Police said the suspect was then caught on video staring at the female and touching himself.

The victim alerted staff, who asked the suspect to leave before the police arrived.

Parents who bring their children to the pool every summer, including Amy Williamson, said it is a very family friendly area where they would never expect something like this to happen.

“I’ve been out here many times and always felt safe,” Williamson said. “There are lifeguards, (my daughter) knows how to swim, we’re good to go. Now, I am thinking I probably need to have a little more active of a watch going on.”

City officials were not able to comment for this story because the incident is still under investigation. Police said charges will likely not be filed, but the man can be banned from the pool.

Anyone with information on the suspect’s identity is asked to contact GPD Master Police Officer J. Perry at 615-452-1313 or jperry@gallatinpd.org.