Fred Willard arrested on suspicion of lewd conduct

Actor Fred Willard was arrested Wednesday night on suspicion of engaging in a lewd act at an adult theater in Hollywood.

Vice officers who were part of a prostitution-enforcement detail spotted the 72-year-old actor “engaged in a lewd act” at the Tiki Theater on Santa Monica Boulevard, Sgt. Chuck Slater of the Los Angeles Police Department told L.A. Now.

Though Slater did not elaborate on the alleged misdemeanor, law enforcement sources told TMZ that Willard’s penis was exposed.

Officers routinely monitor adult theaters and respond to complaints, Slater said. If a complaint is made, authorities return to a theater until the offending behavior stops or arrests deter criminal activity.

Willard was booked and released on his own recognizance, Slater said, though booking information shows bail set at $500. Willard’s publicist made no comment.

The comedy actor played Ron Burgundy’s boss in “Anchorman” and had roles in “This Is Spinal Tap” and “Wall-E.” He’s hosting the improv series “Trust Us With Your Life,” which airs Tuesdays on ABC.

Follow Danielle Paquette on Twitter @DpaquetteLA. Follow the Ministry of Gossip on Twitter @LATcelebs.

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