EAST PROVIDENCE — A homeless city man was arrested Wednesday, July 30, and arraigned the following day on a charge of disorderly conduct-indecent exposure after he was allegedly found to have pleasured himself last week in a room at the Weaver Library.
Michael Dorado, 25, of East Providence, is alleged to have entered the library on July 26 and subsequently began to masturbate in what is known in the building as the “Teen Room.”
According to East Providence Police Lieutenant Raymond Blinn, Mr. Dorado told investigating officers he entered the room because it was empty at the time. He used a computer to connect to the internet, became aroused while watching videos and began to fondle himself.
While in the act, Lt. Blinn continued, a woman and young girl entered the room. The woman told Mr. Dorado to stop, which he did. He quickly covered up and left the premisses.
Library personnel next contacted police, who began an investigation, Lt. Blinn said. Officer Craig Stroker initiated the inquiry and Officer Kevin Grant pursued contacts within law enforcement and public services.
Police obtained video surveillance footage from the day of the incident and visually identified Mr. Dorado. The footage clearly corroborated Mr. Dorado being in the midst of a “lewd act,” according to Lt. Blinn.
A warrant was issued for Mr. Dorado’s arrest and his information was distributed to other police departments, including Providence. Officer Grant made contact with the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, personnel there recognizing Mr. Dorado. Providence Police were made aware of this, and subsequently detained him at Kennedy Plaza.
Mr. Dorado was transferred into EPPD custody. He was arraigned Thursday morning. Lt. Blinn said Mr. Dorado has no prior criminal record involving similar acts nor does he have a record of mental health issues.