Change in attitude in Fort Jefferson

[rancher44]

I have been a little hesitant to say any thing but I noticed a drastic change in the rangers in Fort Jefferson .
I have been there several times in the last 6 months . The new supervisor is not very friendly and a bit of an authority monger .I have have observed several incidents but the last was very disturbing.
The ranger pulled up to a boat anchored and demanded a young girl draped in a big beach towel stand up on the boat deck and remove her towel. She had on a tiny bikini . I was not sure what his purpose was but maybe checking to see if she was nude?? I could not figure out what was going on .
I was not aware of any nudity regs there but was really concerned .
This is only one of the incidents .
Not sure how to complain as I know he could justify any of his actions But his mannerism is very threatening
Has any one else had any problems or noticed this change?

[Waterrat10]

I have never been there but based on your post I would definitely recommend you send an email to the NPS with details of your complaint. There is no reason to ask a young women to remove her towel. No law about being naked under a towel. That is highly inappropriate and very difficult to explain away. Even if they could explain it away enough complaints of similar indiscretion will help build a case against offending officer. Please complain to NPS. The NPS has been a very professional organization in all of my dealings and I would think there are many qualified individuals much more deserving of their position.

[Saleen411]

Point a video camera at the offending authority figure. I've seen "attitudes" INSTANTLY change for the better.

BTW...I totally agree with Waterrat. Demanding a young gal to remove her beach towel is WAY over the top inappropriate.

[Tetra]

This gentleman may not be a good match for his present assignment.

[Cheechako]

Yes, complain higher up about that incident. Even if naked under the towel, she's not naked with it covering her.

[rancher44]

I did call the regional office and talk to an assist director. They will investigate . What I am concerned about is retaliation as I go there frequently. I did not have a camera or ready access to my phone I was in a little shock. If it had been on my boat I would have had a real issue.

Not really sure what has happened down there but their is a major attitude
problem there . several of the employees have left.

Please if you or know of any incidents post it on this forum

[redhead]

I think the suggestion about filming questionable activities is the right one.

If the man is acting within the parameters of his authority, he will not flinch.
If not, then, short of demanding you stop (which he can't enforce) he will stop. I've used this in my former life with town employees doing work for private residences. Never said a word, just held up my phone/camera. There was panic, but no retribution. In fact, an apology followed.

Just remain courteous and make sure YOU are obeying the rules. Bad behavior/bullying hates publicity. And follow up with the district office if you see it again. Good luck!

[Paul J. Nolan]

Originally Posted by rancher44

What I am concerned about is retaliation as I go there frequently.

If you encounter any of that, that ranger is really in trouble.

Paul

PS All complaints should be in writing, starting with a letter confirming the content of your call.

[denverd0n]

Originally Posted by rancher44

Please if you or know of any incidents post it on this forum

But before you do, file a complaint with the National Park Service. That might actually make a difference.

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by denverd0n

But before you do, file a complaint with the National Park Service. That might actually make a difference.

PLEASE NOTE: the process outlined on this page is for filing complaints against members of the United States Park Police only. To file a complaint against other employees of the National Park Service, please contact the local park's Office of the Superintendent.
➥ https://www.nps.gov/subjects/uspp/file-a-complaint.htm

As of January, 2015, Pedro Ramos has been superintendent of Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks in Florida.
➥ https://www.nps.gov/bicy/contacts.htm

[rancher44]

Several members have voice similar incidents on private messages please post on forum