Cops Seek Man Accused Of Indecent Exposure At Dollar Store

Falls Township police are seeking a Trenton man accused of exposing himself to a customer inside a store earlier this week.

An arrest warrant was issued Friday for Anthony Maurice Oates, 30, on charges of indecent exposure, open lewdness, and disorderly conduct.

The incident took place Tuesday afternoon inside a business along the 200 block of Plaza Boulevard in the Morrisville section of Falls Township.

Police said a man, who they allege was Oates, exposed himself to a shopper while “engaged in an act of sexual stimulation” at the Dollar Tree on Plaza Boulevard.

After asking for the public’s help to identify the suspect earlier in the week, investigators identified Oates based on tips and evidence gathered during the investigation, police said.

Falls Township police told 6abc that investigators believe the incident is connected to a “gooning” trend, which involves people exposing or fondling themselves inside retail locations, frequently Dollar Tree stores.

Detective Dennis O’Connell told the TV station that the acts are “very disgusting,” adding that another incident happened this week in neighboring Middletown Township.

Police are asking anyone who sees Oates to immediately call 9-1-1.

Police encouraged Oates to surrender himself to officials in Pennsylvania or New Jersey.

Dollar Tree issued a statement and said that the safety and security of its customers and staff remain the company’s highest priorities.

“We take reports of inappropriate, unlawful, or harassing behavior in our stores extremely seriously,” the statement read. “Any incident of this nature is unacceptable, and when we become aware of criminal activity, we cooperate fully with law enforcement and support their investigations.”

In the statement, the company said it will work with staff and local police to maintain a safe environment.