Man arrested for exposing himself to customers, staff at Walmart in Chelmsford

Police arrested a man who allegedly exposed himself to customers and staff inside a Walmart store in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, on Friday morning.

Jason J. Ruggs, 32, of Lawrence, was charged with open and gross lewdness, disturbing the peace and disorderly conduct, police said.

Chelmsford police said they were called to the Walmart store at 66 Parkhurst Road around 9:49 a.m. Friday for a report of a man who was exposing himself. Officers arrived and were informed that a person later identified as Ruggs had exposed himself multiple times to customers and staff inside the business.

Ruggs had fled the area before police arrived. Officers began a search of the area and soon found him on foot near the Lowell city line. He was taken into custody without further incident.

“This was a disturbing incident that understandably caused alarm among employees and customers,” Chelmsford Deputy Police Chief Gary Hannagan said in a statement. “Our officers responded quickly, worked together effectively, and apprehended the suspect without further risk to the public. Their professionalism and decisive actions reflect the high standards of the Chelmsford Police Department. We also want to extend our thanks to the store staff for their cooperation, awareness, and assistance during the incident.”

Ruggs is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday in Lowell District Court.