Man Exposes Himself To Children At Bounce House: Police

PETALUMA, CA — A man was arrested on suspicion of exposing himself to children at a bounce house Saturday in downtown Petaluma, police said.

The indecent exposure was reported shortly after 3:40 p.m. at 2nd and C streets by two separate 911 callers, Petaluma police Lt. Zilverio Rivera said. The witnesses told police the man, later identified as Damien Hansen, 48, showed his genitalia to children who were near the inflatable play structure.

At the time, the Petaluma Butter and Egg Days Festival was taking place in the downtown area. As officers arrived at the bounce house, a witness flagged them down and pointed out Hansen.

Officers investigated the allegations, then placed Hansen under arrest. He was booked into Sonoma County jail on suspicion of indecent exposure and annoying or molesting a child.

Jail records indicated Hansen was no longer in custody Tuesday morning.

"We recognize that this is the second case in the last couple of weeks where a suspect has been charged with 'annoying or molesting a child' and that the term has caused some confusion," Rivera said.

According to the lieutenant, the charge encompasses a wide range of behavior intended to "disturb, harm or improperly influence a minor." This can include things like inappropriate touching, suggestive comments or exposing oneself to a child, Rivera said.

"We want to extend our sincere gratitude to the community members who took the time to report suspicious activity and criminal behavior in our neighborhoods," Rivera said. "By speaking up, you help us respond quickly, gather valuable information, and prevent further harm."