56°
At approximately 4 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 5, two 13-year-old girls reported that a man pulled up to them in a Honda sedan near the intersection of Cowles Avenue and Intervale Place in Rye, asking for directions toward Boston Post Road.
According to police, the interaction seemed innocuous initially, until the girls realized that he was slowly following them and masturbating. The teenagers ran north on Cowles Avenue, away from the suspect, who sped off down Intervale Place.
The girls were able to work with the Rye Police Department to craft a composite sketch of the suspect, who has been described as a white male in his late 20s, with short dark hair that may have a red tint to it, an unshaven face and five o’clock shadow. He was wearing a light blue T-shirt and jeans when he approached the girls, who noted that he had crooked teeth and needed braces, helping police narrow their search. He speaks clear English with no accent.
When discussing the vehicle, the girls described a white spoiler on the rear of the trunk and black pin striping on the side. They called the car, “tricked out.” As a result of the "lewdness incident," the police have increased security patrols around the local schools as a precaution.
Rye Police Commissioner Michael Corcoran, Jr. has praised the girls for thinking on their feet and for their assistance during the investigation.
“These young ladies did exactly what a young person should do, observe, run away and immediately contact police,” he said in a statement. “In today’s day and age, there is no reason that an adult should be asking a child for directions, wanting to show or offer them a puppy, give them candy, offer them money, offer them a train ride or anything else on a public street.
“These are always red flags, cause for concern and warrant immediate notification to police.”
The investigation into last week's incident is ongoing. Police have canvassed the area and reviewed surveillance video from surrounding locations. Anyone with information can contact the Rye Police Department at (914) 967-1234 and request the Detective Division. Tips can also be provided anonymously by calling the Tip Line at (914) 760-424
Click here to follow Daily Voice Rye and receive free news updates.
