Westchester County Police Investigate Attempted Luring, Report Students as Safe

In a letter to the Bedford Central School District community, yesterday, Dr. Christopher Manno,  Superintendent of Schools reported on an attempted luring of a Fox Lane Middle School student.

Today, Manno said that the suspicious activity was investigated by the Westchester County Police Department (WCPD) and at this time, the WCPD has determined that our students are safe and there is no threat as a result of the matter.

"It is heartening that our student did exactly the right thing in this suspicious and scary circumstance by running away and finding the nearest trusted adult to provide assistance. To provide an additional sense of safety and security for our families, I have requested additional patrols around and near our bus stops in this area early next week," said Manno.

Manno reminded parents that the MKPD and WCPD encourage residents of our towns to contact them if should there be any questions or concerns. In the case of an emergency, always call 911.

For non-emergency inquiries, contact the following or your local police department non-emergency number:

Mount Kisco Police Department Phone Number: (914) 864-1133

Westchester County Department of Public Safety Phone Number: (914) 864-7904

According to Manno, BCSD teaches students about the importance of being cautious in the presence of strangers. Specifically, we reinforce to our children in a developmentally appropriate manner on how to ensure their safety. The following are appropriate and helpful statements for young children:

• Reinforce to children that they are safe at school.
• Reinforce to children if they encounter anything in their community that makes them feel uncomfortable, they should seek out the nearest trusted adult.
• Remind children that if they see something out of the ordinary, they should tell a trusted adult.
• Tell children if they are approached by a stranger, they should not talk to the stranger and should immediately run to the nearest familiar place or adult.

"Our clinicians are always available for student or parent questions or concerns. Please call your building principal with any additional inquiries," Manno said.