Naked swimmer convicted of offensive behaviour

18 May 2006
Stuff.co.nz, New Zealand


A Hokitika transexual was found guilty of offensive behaviour
following a naked swim in the sea.

In Greymouth District Court, Judge John Strettell convicted Flow In
(crct), 32, ordering her to come up for sentence if called within
six months.

The court was told police were called to the Hokitika Beach after
youths complained they had been approached by a naked woman.

Constable Neil Gillespie said he approached the woman who jumped
back into the sea.

When she got beyond the breakers she started waving her arms around
as if she was in trouble.

Mr Gillespie said the Coast Guard and rescue helicopter were placed
on standby as he swum out to give assistance.

But as soon as he got near, she swam back to the beach where she was
given a coat and arrested.

Judge Strettell said the conviction was not based on her gender but
the fact she had chosen to expose herself on a public beach.


C Fairfax New Zealand Limited 2006.