Four Indiana Men Convicted of Public Indecency at National Lakeshore

Date: February 12, 2007

In an effort to curb incidents of illegal activity taking place at locations within Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, United States Park Rangers recently conducted special operations and enhanced patrols. These efforts were designed to both apprehend individuals engaged in these activities but also to enhance the safety and well-being of law-abiding park visitors.

As a result of these operations, several persons were identified and charged with a variety of offenses. All of these individuals were prosecuted through the United States Magistrate Court in Hammond, Indiana.

Four individuals were convicted of crimes as a result of their activities while in the National Lakeshore. They are: Ramon Romantico, of Gary, Indiana, guilty of public indecency and fined $275.00, John G. Bohling, of Schererville, Indiana, guilty of public indecency and fined $275.00, Francis J. Peltier, of Hobart, Indiana, guilty of two counts of public indecency and fined $450.00, and William S. Beith, of Burns Harbor, Indiana, guilty of public indecency, fined $625.00, and banned from visiting Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore for a period of two years.

Throughout the year, Park Rangers will continue to use a variety of investigative techniques to apprehend and deter individuals involved in improper behavior within the National Lakeshore. Members of the public who observe criminal activity within Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore are encouraged to make a report by calling 1-800-Park Tip (727-5847)