Police Investigate Man Taking Photos Of Children In Wakefield
WAKEFIELD (CBS) – A man taking pictures of children in Wakefield is making people nervous and uncomfortable.
There have been at least four reports in the past ten days, but police say the 60-year-old man has not committed a crime. Because he is not facing charges, WBZ-TV is not using his name in this report.
He has been spotted all over town taking pictures at playgrounds and near nursery schools.
The situation has put police in a bad spot because technically, what he is doing is not illegal.
"We've talked to him, told him he's making people uncomfortable," Wakefield Police Lt. Scott Reboulet said.
"He's left and he's not getting the hint, he's coming back multiple times doing the same thing and we're just asking that the people call the police rather than go onto Facebook or Twitter."
The concern has spread to social media. One post about the man on Facebook has been shared more than 5,000 times.
WBZ spoke with the man at his apartment. He said that he is simply an artist and takes photos of kids and adults.
"I love people and I love people in their most natural setting," the man said.
Police say the man was cooperative and willingly showed officers his digital camera, which revealed no inappropriate photos.
"It's just fun to see children play," he said. "I feel bad about it and I want to do something about it, I don't know what I can do."
Police are glad that parents are observant, and want them to call if they see anything unusual.