A routine visit to the library turned into a criminal case on Monday, July 6, when Decatur police arrested a 61-year-old man accused of masturbating in front of a child at the Decatur branch of the DeKalb County Public Library. The alleged victim is under 16, and investigators say surveillance footage played a key role in prompting the arrest.
Arrest and warrant details
Police identified the suspect as 61-year-old Fredrick White of Decatur and booked him into the DeKalb County Jail, according to Decaturish. The outlet reports that the arrest warrant it reviewed says video footage shows an adult masturbating in front of the child and notes that the child's father was present at the time. White remains in custody while investigators continue their inquiry, the report says.
Library security and background
The Decatur branch has operated under heightened security since a February shooting, and the county now requires all patrons to enter through a single rear door and pass through a staffed screening checkpoint. According to DeKalb County, the checkpoint is staffed during open hours by a county police officer and a security guard. FOX 5 Atlanta also reported that patrons are being screened with metal detectors at the parking-deck entrance.
What police say and next steps
A Decatur police spokesperson told Decaturish there are currently no plans to assign additional officers to the branch, even as the county maintains its existing screening protocol. Investigators have not released further details about any formal charges or upcoming court dates. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
