Eight men ranging in age from 28 to 72 were arrested following an undercover operation at a Jacksonville, Florida, park after authorities received repeated complaints about alleged sexual activity taking place in public areas.
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, detectives with the Vice Unit launched an investigation at Beach and Peach Urban Park in the Southside Estates neighborhood after residents raised concerns about individuals allegedly using the recreational area for sexual encounters.
On October 1, 2026, an undercover detective was stationed inside the park to investigate the complaints. Authorities say eight men independently approached the detective throughout the day and allegedly solicited sexual acts. Investigators reported that some of the men also exposed themselves during their interactions with the officer. All eight were subsequently taken into custody.
The men arrested were identified as Peter Smith, 63; George Freeman, 72; Cedric Jones, 56; Tajmaus Johnson Jr., 28; Elkin Espitia, 45; John Aguirre, 62; Alejandro Brioso Martinez, 37; and Florentino De La Cruz, 47.
All eight were charged with offering to commit lewdness. Aguirre also faces a controlled substance possession charge, while Martinez faces additional charges involving controlled substance possession and drug paraphernalia. De La Cruz was additionally charged with exposing sexual organs in public.
According to arrest reports obtained by Action News Jax, two of the men acknowledged previously communicating with the undercover detective through Sniffies, a location-based platform used by men seeking same-sex encounters.
One particularly unusual detail emerged from the arrest report involving 45-year-old Elkin Espitia. Investigators alleged that Espitia approached the undercover detective, expressed interest in sexual activity and began touching himself while suggesting an encounter near park benches.
However, after his arrest, Espitia reportedly denied making sexual advances and offered a different explanation for his presence at the park. He told investigators he had come there to pray because he wanted to become a pastor and was attending school for that purpose. Authorities listed his occupation as a delivery driver. His claim about attending school to become a pastor has not been independently verified.
Espitia was scheduled for arraignment on October 22.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office emphasized that public parks are intended for recreational use by residents and families, not illegal sexual activity. Officials said such conduct can create safety concerns, particularly for children and other visitors who may encounter inappropriate behavior.
The arrests followed multiple community complaints, and authorities indicated that protecting public recreational spaces remains a priority.
The case also highlights the distinction between consensual sexual activity among adults and conduct that allegedly takes place in public spaces in violation of local laws. The investigation centered on accusations of public solicitation and indecent behavior rather than the sexual orientation of those involved.
All eight men face criminal allegations, and their guilt or innocence will be determined through the judicial process.
