Nudists arrested after accidentally stripping off on wrong Florida beach

Six nudists were arrested in Florida after they removed their clothing at the wrong beach.

The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office took Daniel Harrisson, Donald Knapp, Gaetane Lambert, Steven Marhenke, Elmer Quandt, and Nicolas Ramos into custody on October 25 following “numerous complaints regarding unauthorized nudity,” authorities said.

The group was found near the Little Mud Boat Ramp, roughly a mile north of Blind Creek Beach, which is the county’s designated nude-optional area.

Sheriff’s officials noted that while Blind Creek Beach is currently undergoing temporary renovations, this does not allow nudity in undesignated public areas.

Since the renovation began, some nudists have repeatedly moved north of the approved zone, prompting concern from local residents. In response, deputies have increased patrols—on foot and ATV—since early September and have been reminding visitors of posted signage marking the nude-optional boundaries.

“Deputies will continue to enforce all state laws and county ordinances related to Blind Creek Beach, including violations involving unauthorized nudity,” officials said. “Visitors are reminded to stay within the clearly posted nude-optional boundaries and to cover up before leaving those areas or entering parking lots and public spaces.”

Local reactions to the arrests have been mixed. Some beachgoers expressed sympathy for the nudists. “I feel bad for them. I wish it didn’t happen. What’s the problem? Who’s out there to make the complaint is the question,” said Andy, a frequent visitor, to CBS 12.

Others supported the enforcement, noting that non-nudist beach areas, like Little Mud Creek, are meant for clothed visitors. “Young families could be here, and the reality is the sign says you have to be clothed or in a bathing suit,” said one visitor. Another added, “They need to stay within the boundaries of where the nudity part is allowed.”

Under Florida law, exposure of sexual organs is a misdemeanor. Convicted violators could face up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.

The arrests drew attention online, with many commenters mocking the situation while agreeing that nudity on a clothing-mandatory beach is inappropriate. One user quipped, “I’m 73 and I can attest to the statement ‘ain’t nobody wanna see that.’” Another added sarcastically, “Did the deputy pat them down for weapons?”

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