‘Nude, not lewd’: Naked mailbox guy defends Denny Blaine Park amid lawsuit

A dispute over Denny Blaine Park has intensified into a lawsuit, which claims repeated instances of public masturbation and indecent exposure—allegedly happening “in broad daylight.”

“It’s nude, not lewd,” longtime visitor, known as “David the mailbox man,” said on “The John Curley Show” on KIRO Newsradio Tuesday.

For decades, Denny Blaine Park, situated on the shores of Lake Washington, has been known as an unofficial nude beach and a safe gathering spot for Seattle’s LGBTQ+ community and naturists. Supporters describe it as a rare haven for body freedom and acceptance in a city increasingly transformed by development and gentrification.

David defended the culture at the park, saying the crowd polices itself during the day and that those causing trouble typically arrive after dark.

“We call out anyone who crosses the line,” David said. “But after sundown, fires and unmonitored activity happen—and that’s when the problems start.”

Denny Blaine Park goers believe wealthy neighbor is trying to stop nudists

David and others believe the lawsuit may be fueled in part by a wealthy neighbor, referred to as Mr. Sloan, who purchased and rebuilt a home next to the park.

Critics allege Sloan knew full well of the park’s reputation before buying the property and has since lobbied city officials, including Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, to make changes that would limit nudity, possibly by introducing playground equipment or rezoning.

“There were emails that went back and forth between Mr. Sloan and Bruce Harrell,” David said. “Mr. Sloan said, ‘Listen, how about I give you a whole bunch of money, we put in a kid’s park.’”

Listen to the full conversation below: 

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