In Carbondale, where warm weather seems to have also arrived with naked men, the sheriff wants you to know that's no reason not to go hiking.
Reports of naked, trail-running men have increased in the area since 2008, according to a Garfield County Sheriff's Office statement released earlier in May.
At a press conference yesterday, however, Sheriff Lou Vallario stated the naked men shouldn't deter outdoor enthusiasts from going about their business as usual.
"Be a little more aware, take some precautions... but you need to do what you enjoy in life,” said Sheriff Vallario in a Grand Junction Sentinel article.
According to Vallario, the sheriff's office has deployed plain-clothed agents to patrol trails, in an assignment that's surely the envy of desk-workers everywhere.
- On March 28th, 2012 at approximately 1:56 p.m. a citizen observed a naked male running on Red Hill Trail. He is described as a white male with red hair, approximately 5’10” tall and an athletic build.
- On April 29, 2012 at approximately 11:06 a.m. a citizen observed a naked man running near the top of Red Hill Trail. He is described as a white male, short brown hair, approximately 5’9” tall with a runners build.
- On May 2, 2012 at approximately 4:36 p.m. a citizen observed a naked man hiding behind a tree near the Lorax Trail. The suspect is described a white male, brown hair, small beard, 5’11” tall, 25-30 years old.
- On April 22, 2012 at approximately 2:34 p.m. a citizen observed a male party masturbating in the brush just off the Rio Grande Trail, near the Catherine Bridge Trailhead. The suspect is described as a white male with shoulder length light or graying hair, approximately 5’10” to 6’0” tall and a medium to thick build.
The press release continues, "As we continue to review and investigate similar sightings in the Carbondale area, The Garfield County Sheriff’s office is asking citizens to be vigilant with their safety and report any suspicious occurrences immediately... Do not put your safety in jeopardy, call 9-1-1 immediately."
According to the Grand Junction Sentinel, the sheriff’s department has responded 11 similar reports on the same three trails dating back to 2008.