Richard Cox, a Tier III registered sex offender with a criminal record spanning more than three decades, faces multiple charges after allegedly exposing himself to women and children at public school and community facilities in Virginia while claiming to be a trans-identifying man.
Authorities say the 58-year-old repeatedly entered female locker rooms at Arlington’s Washington-Liberty High School and associated community pools over several months.
Cox was arrested last December following multiple reports of indecent exposure.
Evidence from surveillance and eyewitness accounts indicates he targeted both adults and minors, including at Barcroft Sports and Fitness Center and other community pools linked to Washington-Liberty High School.
Law enforcement officials also discovered child pornography on Cox’s phone and documents listing local children’s gymnastics and swimming schedules, suggesting the incidents were premeditated.
During a court appearance last Thursday, Cox demanded that the prosecutor cease referring to him as male, asserting he identifies as a woman.
The judge denied the request, citing physical evidence and testimony from witnesses, including minors, confirming Cox was biologically male during the incidents.
Cox’s criminal history is extensive, as highlighted by The Daily Caller.
First charged with indecent liberties in Arlington in 1992, he is now classified as a Tier III sex offender, requiring lifetime registration.
Records show prior incidents in nearby Fairfax County, where Cox allegedly exposed himself in the women’s locker room of a Planet Fitness in June 2024.
Prosecutors reportedly declined to pursue charges after Cox claimed to have legally changed his gender.
Cox faces charges including indecent liberties with a child, indecent exposure and entering a school as a registered sex offender.
Authorities in Arlington and surrounding districts are reviewing safety procedures to prevent similar incidents.
The case has intensified public debate over school policies, balancing civil rights and protecting students from predators.
Experts note that Cox’s long criminal record and access to women’s spaces under gender-identity policies create a significant challenge for public institutions.
Law enforcement continues its investigation and urges community members to report suspicious activity.
Arlington Public Schools (APS) permits students and the public to use locker rooms and restrooms consistent with self-identified gender.
Following Cox’s arrest, APS reaffirmed its commitment to these policies, despite a U.S. Department of Education finding that they violated civil rights protections for women.
The district stated it would continue promoting an inclusive environment for all students and staff, including LGBT individuals.
Virginia has seen multiple incidents involving trans-identifying individuals.
Earlier this month, a male student identifying as female accessed girls’ locker rooms at West Springfield High School, prompting complaints from parents and a federal review of civil rights compliance, according to the New York Post.
Additionally, a biologically female student identifying as male was recently caught filming in a boys’ locker room at Stone Bridge High School, resulting in suspensions for the boys and renewed policy discussions.
These incidents have triggered legal action and political debate.
Cox’s case highlights the potential risks of current policies allowing individuals to access facilities based on “gender identity” rather than biological sex.
Authorities continue to investigate his repeated offenses in Arlington and Fairfax County, emphasizing the need for public vigilance and careful review of school and community safety protocols.
The controversy surrounding Cox underscores the ongoing tension between protecting civil rights and ensuring the safety of women and girls.
