Letter to the editor: The answer to the question regarding indecent exposure (5 thoughts of the week, September 17) is as follows: the offence is now simply “exposure” from Sexual Offences Act 2003, rather than indecent exposure.
“A person commits an offence if – a) he intentionally exposes his genitals, and b) he intends that someone will see them and be caused alarm or distress.”
Although it states “he”, this applies to both male and female offenders and, as stated, requires a specific intent.
If the female streaker intended people to be alarmed or distressed, then they could be charged with this offence.
If not, then an offence under the Public Order Act would be possible. This answer is a direct lift from the legislation and is a popular question in police promotion exams. I am currently studying for this, hence my knowledge.
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