State v. Sayler

Respondent Chris H. Sayler lured two boys, ages 10 and 12, into the upstairs area of his garage and masturbated in front of them. He was convicted in District Court of public indecency under RCW 9A.88-.010(2), a gross misdemeanor. On appellate review under RALJ, the Superior Court held that the statute was ambiguous and must be given that meaning most favorable to respondent. Thus, the State was required to prove that the offense occurred in a public place. Since it occurred in a private place, 1 the proof was insufficient. The court dismissed the charges. We granted discretionary review, and…