Recess incident leads to increased police presence at Mount Kisco school
School officials said the incident began when a ball was thrown over a fence into a playground.
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There was an increased police presence at a Mount Kisco school on Tuesday after parents say a disturbing incident occurred there.
Students at Mount Kisco Elementary School may have noticed more police around their campus on Tuesday.
The increased presence comes after Westchester County police said three men were detained Monday afternoon after they were found interacting with students near a school fence, where several open cans of beer were found nearby.
The incident has parents in the neighborhood deeply disturbed.
"So, I was actually horrified by that," said resident Theresa Flora.
"[I'm] outraged, because it should have not gotten to this point," said resident Mariana Taormina.
School officials sent parents a letter saying the incident happened during recess when a ball was thrown over a fence into a playground.
Out of curiosity, school officials said the students approached the fence and saw three men standing behind it at the back of Roary's playground.
School officials said the men attempted to talk to the students and allegedly offered them a drink.
Officials said recess supervisors were quickly alerted, moved all the students away from that area and police were called.
Police said summonses were issued. However, Flora said the incident is part of a larger, ongoing safety concern near the school.
"We have been ringing this bell since Feb. 26 about the drug dealing that we see, the aggressive behavior, the aggressive panhandling that's right down the street from the school," Flora said.
A school spokesperson said the school grounds are safe and secure.
They said the superintendent has also been in contact with the mayor and that police have increased regular patrols during arrival and dismissal times.
In the meantime, Taormina called for change.
"I really hope the town works with the district to prioritize the safety of the children," Taormina said.
The mayor said the incident is serious and unacceptable.
