Bedford officials urge vigilance after report of adult approaching child
Authorities say a parent was present when the interaction occurred and that the incident does not appear to be criminal in nature.
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Bedford officials are urging residents to remain vigilant after police received a report of an adult interacting with a child at a local establishment on Aug. 30.
Authorities say a parent was present when the interaction occurred and that the incident does not appear to be criminal in nature.
According to the Bedford Town Supervisor, Ellen Calves, the parent was able to identify the man involved because of previous interactions with him in town and from seeing his photo on Facebook.
Police said the conduct does not rise to the level of criminality and that there is no immediate danger to the public. However, the report has raised concerns among some parents because of a similar incident that occurred earlier this summer in nearby Mount Kisco.
In July, county police responded to a dispute involving several parents and a man at Leonard Park in Mount Kisco. Authorities said the man had approached and spoken with both parents and children at the park. Police reported there were no allegations that he attempted to lure a child away from the area, and he was later issued a formal trespass notice.
Residents in Bedford say the incidents serve as a reminder for parents to educate children about interacting with unfamiliar adults and to remain aware of their surroundings.
In a statement, the Bedford town supervisor said the safety of residents, especially children, remains the town’s top priority and that officials will continue to monitor any activity that could pose a risk to the community.
Officials have not said whether the Bedford and Mount Kisco incidents are connected. News 12 did reach out to authorities but did not hear back.
