Police arrest more than 30 for sex and assault offenses in park
More than 70 charges have been levied against those charged, which include men from Manassas, Nokesville and Gainesville, according to Lucy Caldwell, a Virginia State Police spokeswoman. Their ages range from 28 to 71.
Conway Robinson, located on U.S. 29 east of Haymarket, is a wildlife sanctuary used for, among other things, environmental education and hiking.
“At this point, we’re not done with arrests,” said Caldwell, who would not release the names of those arrested, most of whom face charges stemming from public sexual activity. “It’s my understanding that this sort of activity has been going on for some time. Some of those arrested were married and have kids.”
Troopers began their month-long investigation after they received citizen complaints about the activities. A Cub Scouts group had visited the area and had to quickly leave after encountering men engaged in sexual activity in the woods, Caldwell said.
During the investigation, two troopers were physically assaulted on different occasions, Caldwell said.
The men also face other charges, which include indecent exposure, attempted forcible sodomy, criminal solicitation, disorderly conduct and escape with force.
A call placed to the Virginia Department of Forestry was not immediately returned Monday afternoon.