Police in Auckland are asking men to “think twice” about using a Flat Bush park as a cruising spot – and warn they will be “cracking down” on sexual activity in the area. They say Murphy’s Bush is an area which is well used by young children and families. Counties Manukau Police East Area Commander Inspector Wendy Spiller says men are having sex in the park. “The actions of this small group of people is concerning to us and the community, and we ask that people think twice before using Murphy’s Bush for engaging in this kind of behaviour.” Police warn ‘engaging in offensive behaviour in public’ is a crime which carries a maximum penalty of $1000. They say committing an indecent act in a public place carries a maximum penalty of up to two years in prison. They say they have worked with Auckland Council to make the park more "family-friendly" by removing some trees and actively monitoring the area, however they say this hasn't had the desired long-lasting effect and the park is once again known as a place where men have sex. “It’s really disappointing to hear that many of our community members are avoiding using this space due to the actions of the minority. It’s unacceptable,” Inspector Spiller says. She hopes men who use the park will consider the fact that others also wish to use the area without being disturbed, and warn that police “will actively be cracking down on this type of activity”. Inspector Spiller says police are urging anyone who sees anything suspicious to call 111. “Murphy’s Bush will remain a family-friendly place and we will not tolerate any kind of illicit behaviour.”
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 16th September 2014 - 8:37am