I read about the arrests at the Medford Park and I must add something that was missing and important in the article. I have visited that park many times, so I know from experience about some of the reasons these arrests are taking place. First, a few years back this place was a perfect place for privacy and had almost no real purpose for people to use, outside of bike riders and a few joggers who weren’t there long enough to wonder what was going on. But in recent years that area is completely developed with new apartment complexes, retail stores, dining...all places that are adjacent to the park. 

The private park is no longer private and the authorities have taken steps to accommodate everyone. There are newly installed signs "Clearly Posted" not to trespass into other areas of the park. Since these postings I stopped going there. It was becoming so obvious that this once secluded place is now place for families to go and enjoy the surrounding open areas.

Men who go there now are only putting themselves at risk of arrest. Should the police target a more dangerous criminal? Of course, but I believe the police are sending a message to anyone who thinks it’s perfectly in their rights to have sex in the middle of a park, in the middle of the day, is not going to be tolerated. 

- Formerly from Medford


Got something to say? We would love to hear from you! Letters to the Editor can be emailed to letters@baywindows.com.