Man sentenced for indecent act

A 32-year-old man pleaded guilty in Masterton District Court yesterday to committing an indecent act in a public place.

Police told how Leon Peter Hamlin drove to Millennium Reserve on Hillcrest St, Masterton on October 15, last year, and partially undressed.

He parked his vehicle opposite the gateway to the reserve and walked in.

Once in the reserve Hamlin took off his trousers, leaving him naked below the waist.

A 17-year-old female was walking past the reserve when she saw Hamlin committing an indecent act.

Hamlin then ran out of the reserve and drove off.

Probation officer David Smith said he was "slightly concerned" by the level of offending and that Hamlin did not particularly express much remorse for the victim.

Judge Tony Walsh sentenced Hamlin to 9 months' supervision and 40 hours community work.

He ordered Hamlin to undergo a psychiatric assessment and counselling.

"I have to say to you that this offending must be denounced.

"The sentence of supervision is there to help you I hope you take advantage of it," Judge Walsh said.