Man photographing kids near school raises anxieties

Surveillance cameras were installed at new New River park after multiple reports of a man taking photographs of children leaving New River Elementary School. (PHOTO BY VINCENT MEDINA)

NORWALK – Reports of a man taking photographs of students leaving New River Elementary School in Norwalk is creating safety concerns among parents, students and city officials.

The man has been observed in his car after school hours with a blanket, laptop and cell phone taking pictures of children in the park, according to Fox11. A student from New River Elementary School alleges to have seen the man “masturbating to kids.”

New River Elementary has covered the school fence with a tarp, although this has not stopped the man from continuing to wait in the area after school.

Norwalk City Council member Rick Ramirez authorized the installation of surveillance cameras around the children’s recreation center at the park in response to the growing number of reports. He expressed his concerns for the parent and student safety, while urging against the community “taking the law into their own hands.”

The man accused denies the allegations and insists he has the right to be there. He is aware members of the community are uncomfortable with him at the park, but expressed he plans to continue parking outside New River Elementary School.

Parents have reported the man to law enforcement and public safety. However the man has not broken any laws, as it is legal to film in public places where privacy is not expected.

Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District superintendent Dr. John Lopez said the district is aware of the situation and communicated the situation to the community.