All Over Albany

When lending a hand is just... (shudder, eww)

Albany police say they've arrested a man for allegedly exposing himself and masturbating in front of women in two Lark Street stores, Escape Smoke Shop (October 5) and the Lark Street Flower Shop (November 5). The APD says in both cases he asked the women if the "could help him out." (shudder) [APD press release, pasted below] [TU] [first reported by @EdwinRosado42]

APD: alleged Lark Street masturbator

Albany police arrested a 25 year old City man wanted in connection two public lewdness incidents on Lark Street over the past month.

Lashawn Johnson, of 2 Leonard Place, was arrested by a patrol officer on Sunday morning in front of 262 Lark Street. He is alleged to have exposed himself and masturbated to two woman inside of Lark Street businesses on October 5 and November 5.

Johnson was identified by both victims after Officer Michael Commisso spotted him in front of the Lark Street Flower Shop Sunday morning and took him into custody.

The first incident occurred inside the Escape Smoke Shop on October 5. The second incident occurred inside of the Lark Street Flower Shop on November 5.

Any other victims who might have had contact with Johnson are encouraged to contact the Detective Division at 462-8039.