Parents Stand Up for Scout Leader in Nude Beach Incident

Cub Scout parents are showing their support for the leader who accidentally led his group to a nude beach in San Diego.

On Jan. 24, Cub Scout Pack 766 stumbled upon Black’s Beach while hiking along the Torrey Pines State Beach trails, just north of La Jolla.

The beach is known as a hot spot for nude sunbathers, so the 9- and 10-year-old scouts, accompanied by parents and scout leader Desmond Wheatley, got an all too "natural" experience.

NBC 7 obtained a letter sent to parents from Camping Director Karl Shelton, who wrote that the outing was “rerouted to protect the youth, thanks in part to Mr. Wheatley’s actions.”

After the incident, the local Cub Scout council and pack leadership met with parents to discuss the trip and find out if they should take further action. Shelton said Wheatley, a volunteer leader for the past four years, and the other adults followed protocol and took steps to protect the boys.

Seven parents who were on the hike said the same thing in a statement released Wednesday.

After parent Diane Lekven brought the story to the media’s attention and filed a complaint with the Boy Scouts, the group said they disputed her account and wanted to set the record straight.

“We have had – and continue to have – the highest regard for Mr. Wheatley’s integrity, leadership and his impeccable character,” their statement said.

The parents continued, saying they believe the response to the unexpectedly au naturale hike was responsible, prudent and followed Boy Scouts of America protocols.
 

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