Public Paraphilias: Predators in Plain Sight

Dark Matters Episode 14 Public spaces are designed for convenience, but predators view them through a very different lens. Host Dr. Eric Hickey breaks down how offenders exploit everyday environments, targeting distracted individuals in places like greeting card sections, parking lots, and store aisles. From viral exposures to non-consensual acts of frottage and public assault, this episode examines the psychology of public paraphilias, the permanent digital trail of these crimes, and practical ways to stay situationally aware. Articles Mentioned  https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/jul/20/dollar-tree-sexual-assault-gooner https://www.phillyburbs.com/story/news/crime/2026/08/10/gooning-anthony-oates-falls-dollar-tree-exposure-lewd-crime-assault-bucks-county-police-trenton/91243491007/ https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/san-diego-woman-suing-dollar-tree-over-gooning-incidents-here-across-the-country/4060517/ https://www.denverpost.com/2026/08/18/gooning-dollar-tree-colorado-lawsuit/