Lonoke County, Arkansas – A quiet Friday evening at Lake Pickthorne took a disturbing turn when deputies responded to reports of a man behaving inappropriately in full view of families and others enjoying the fishing area.
According to the Lonoke County Sheriff’s Office, the incident unfolded around 6:45 p.m., when multiple witnesses called to report a man fully nude and dancing next to a parked truck near the lake. Several bystanders, including families with children, were reportedly alarmed by the man’s behavior, describing the scene as openly lewd and unsettling.
Witnesses told deputies that the man was not only unclothed but was also touching himself inappropriately. Authorities identified the man as Paul Buchanan.
When deputies arrived on the scene, they found Buchanan next to his vehicle with no clothing from the waist down. According to investigators, he appeared to be trying to put his clothes back on as officers approached.
“Buchanan admitted to being nude and acting inappropriately while in public view,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement shared on Facebook.
He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Lonoke County Detention Center. Deputies confirmed that he is now facing a formal charge of indecent exposure.
The arrest has sparked concern among locals, especially given the family-friendly nature of Lake Pickthorne, which is known as a favorite spot for fishing and weekend outings.
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Buchanan is expected to appear in court on Monday, where he will answer to the charge. Authorities have not released additional details about the ongoing investigation or whether Buchanan has a prior criminal record.
The sheriff’s office has encouraged anyone who witnessed the event and hasn’t yet spoken with investigators to come forward. They also reminded the public to report suspicious or inappropriate behavior immediately.
As of now, Buchanan remains in custody as officials prepare for his upcoming court appearance.
