The Ramapo Police Department has launched an investigation following a report from a concerned parent about an incident at a school bus stop in Airmont. The parent reported that a man driving a white SUV stopped near the bus stop and offered a ride to her daughter. The student declined, and the vehicle drove away.
Officers and detectives immediately initiated an investigation, utilizing video footage, license plate reader (LPR) data, DMV records, and other investigative tools. They successfully identified the driver as a male resident of Airmont, New York.
Upon being interviewed, the man explained that, due to the cold weather, he offered the student a ride to school, something he claimed to have done within his community in the past without issue. After discussing the matter with investigators, he acknowledged that such actions could raise concerns in the current climate. Detectives strongly advised him against offering rides in similar situations moving forward.
Both the driver and the student provided consistent accounts of the interaction. The student confirmed that the driver asked if she needed a ride, she declined, and after a brief exchange, he drove away.
A review of law enforcement databases found no prior reports involving this individual. Additionally, based on New York State law, the specifics of this case did not meet the threshold for a probable cause arrest.
In response to the incident, Ramapo Police officers were stationed at the bus stop on Friday, utilizing the department’s DFR Unmanned Aerial System to enhance public safety efforts. Officers will continue routine patrols at school bus stops as part of their ongoing safety measures.
Authorities encourage parents and guardians to use this as an opportunity to discuss bus stop safety and the importance of staying vigilant around unfamiliar individuals.
As of today, the Ramapo Police Department has conducted 1,345 self-initiated school-related safety checks this year—a 2.5% increase compared to the same period last year. These checks include monitoring school buses and bus stops to ensure student safety.