GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (WLOS) – A South Carolina sheriff is pleading with the public to help put an end to illegal sexual activity.
The Greenville County Sheriff's Office took to social media on Monday to share a message from Sheriff Hobart Lewis.
In the post on Facebook, the sheriff's office says its department has received numerous complaints for years about people meeting up at Pelham Mill Park in Greer to have sex. Officials say people have been consistently meeting up "in the parking lot, in the woods, and out in the open."
"As a result, innocent bystanders, including children, have unfortunately witnessed this activity," the sheriff's office wrote.
Law enforcement have upped patrols at the park, canvassed the area and even piloted some undercover operations which have resulted in some arrests.
“Under no circumstance should a young child or community member who is trying to enjoy a peaceful day at a park have to be exposed to this sort of activity," Lewis said.
The sheriff said the department is continuing its patrol of the area and working to identify suspects, but he said they need the community's help as well. He urged people to report any suspicious or illegal activity they witness.
"I want to speak to the people who are committing these acts and simply let them know, that we are familiar with the apps you use to engage in this activity, we know your intentions, and to STOP," Lewis said.