Butler man accused of exposing himself
CENTER TWP — A man was taken to the Butler County Jail on Friday afternoon after he was accused of exposing his genitals across the street from a day care center.
Richard Blain, 57, who witnesses said was naked from the waist down and wearing a black shirt, walked out of his house at 336 Sunset Drive onto his porch three times around 3:45 p.m. with his genitals exposed, said state police Cpl. Michael Lewis.
Blain's home is between 100 feet to 150 feet across the street from Sheryl Buffington's Daycare & Preschool Palace.
Lewis said the day care manager notified law enforcement.
Owner Sheryl Buffington said the children were safe at all times.
Although Buffington did not witness the incident, several parents alerted her to the situation, she said.
“We are very proud of our local law enforcement for their speediness in the issue and keeping the children and community safe,” Buffington said. “They did a fantastic job.”
Children and parents were in the parking lot at the time, Lewis said, adding that the number of children present was unknown.
A 46-year-old Butler woman, a 63-year-old Butler man and a 28-year-old Butler woman were in the day care parking lot at 325 Sunset Drive at the time and reported the incident, Lewis said.
A patrol trooper was sent to investigate and determined that Blain exposed himself.
Lewis said it is unknown why he exposed himself.
“He doesn't want to speak to us at this time,” Lewis said. “I believe he wants to speak to an attorney first.”
A warrant was served, and Blain was placed in the Butler County Prison, he said.
His charges include indecent exposure, open lewdness, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness, Lewis said.
“He smelled of alcohol terrible ... He was highly intoxicated,” Lewis said.
Although Blain has a criminal history, he never has been accused of exposing himself, Lewis said.
Blain was arraigned by District Judge Lewis Stoughton and bond was set at $5,000.
“As the Pennsylvania State Police, it's a victory for us for sure,” Lewis said. “I think it's a victory for the families and shows the lady in charge of the day care did the right thing.”
Blain's preliminary hearing is scheduled for Sept. 17 before Stoughton.
