Priest's profession banned at trial

A priest's profession will not be referenced in his indecent exposure trial next month.

Rev. Robert Whipkey, 53, who is charged with indecent exposure for jogging naked in June 2007 in Frederick, according to police. Police said he was jogging naked in the early morning hours down a Frederick street. He told police that wearing clothes while he ran made him sweat profusely.

Friday in court, Whipkey's appearance was waived for his pre-trial readiness conference, in which Weld District Judge Timothy Kerns approved a motion to exclude any reference to Whipkey's profession as a priest during the trial because it has no bearing on the charge.

In addition, Kerns granted a motion allowing prior incidents, including allegations that Whipkey has been seen walking around his home nude, swimming in a lake naked and woke children up at a retreat naked, to be admitted in the trial.

Kerns also denied a motion regarding a suspected incident involving Whipkey opening a shower curtain at the retreat, and reserved judgment on an alleged incident involving Whipkey urinating in front of children based on more information.

Kerns said the pattern, and Whipkey's incredulous response in the past warranted his decision.

The two day trial is set to begin June 11 in Weld District Court.

What's Next

Rev. Robert Whipkey's two-day indecent exposure trial will begin June 11 in Weld District Court.