Police: Bedford 'interaction' between adult and child 'does not rise to the level of criminality'

Please note that the flyer circulating about this incident was not issued by the police and while well-intended contains some inaccuracies”

—Bedford Supervisor Ellen Calves

BEDFORD, N.Y. - Bedford police are reminding the public to report any “concerning behaviors” to local authorities immediately so “they can respond promptly and appropriately.”

In a statement issued on Monday, Aug. 31, police said they were “aware of an interaction between an adult and child” in the town the previous day.

Police confirmed that the “interaction” had occurred in a shop in Bedford Village and that the adult was a man.

According to police, the child’s parent was present at the time and was able to identify the adult “who was known to the parent.”

“After follow-up investigation, the conduct does not rise to the level of criminality and does not appear to be any immediate danger to the public,” the statement said.

Police were “also aware of a homemade flyer circulating that describes the incident but other details may not be completely accurate, and the flyer has no affiliation to the Bedford Police Department.”

Halston Media reached out to the person whose number was listed on the flyer and was told that they knew absolutely nothing about it.

Police reminded folks to immediately report any concerning behaviors to police so that they can “respond promptly and appropriately.”

“The Bedford Police Department remains vigilant to protect public safety, and the safety of our children is paramount,” the statement read.

Supervisor Ellen Calves said the alleged incident “certainly puts us all on edge.”

However, the police take every single report about odd or inappropriate behavior “incredibly seriously” and investigates thoroughly, she said.

Calves' Facebook post reads as follows:

“Please note that the flyer circulating about this incident was not issued by the police and while well-intended contains some inaccuracies. However, fact that the same person has been seen interacting with children in public places on more than one occasion is true, and while not rising to the level of criminality, continues to be of concern. Police continue to be on alert and encourage everyone to immediately report any concerning behaviors to Bedford PD at (914) 241-3111, or in an emergency call 911.”