A 42-year-old Peterborough man on a prohibition order to stay away from areas where children would frequent is facing new charges after an incident was reported to police.
On Monday, March 9, 2026, officers received a call from a concerned resident after they spotted a man masturbating in a public area near Bethune Street and Murray Street. The incident had happened around 5:00pm and the resident was further concerned as there was a child outside in the area. Officers searched the area upon being made aware of the incident, but were unable to locate the man. A short time later, police received a second call as the man had returned. Officers were able to locate a man matching the description given to police and took him into custody.
As a result of the investigation, 42-year-old Steven Watson of Peterborough was arrested and charged with:
Indecent Act- public place
Fail to Comply with Probation Order
Fail to Comply with Prohibition Regarding Children
He is currently bound by a probation order with the following condition: to keep the peace and be of good behaviour.
He is also bound by a prohibition order with the following conditions: to not attend a public park or public swimming area where persons under the age of sixteen years are present or can reasonably be expected to be present or a daycare centre, school ground, playground or community centre.
The accused is being held in custody and will appear in court today, March 10, 2026.
Watson was the subject of a public safety notice issued in December 2025 by the Peterborough Police Service. https://www.peterboroughpolice.com/en/news/media-release-for-wednesday-december-10-2025.aspx
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
