Exclusive: Massapequa Park senior targeted by group of children repeatedly kicking her door
Exclusive surveillance video obtained by News 12 has captured groups of children allegedly kicking and banging on the woman's front door numerous times.
More Stories
The daughter of a Massapequa Park woman says her mother has been the target of harassment for months - as a group of children has been repeatedly kicking the door of her home.
Exclusive surveillance video obtained by News 12 has captured groups of children allegedly kicking and banging on the woman's front door numerous times.
Videos posted on Facebook by the homeowner’s daughter have generated hundreds of comments from concerned residents, many expressing sympathy for the woman and calling for the behavior to stop.
“It’s mean to do that, to frighten her like that,” said neighbor Linda Fazio.
The homeowner’s daughter, who spoke off camera, said the incidents happened again the previous night. According to a Facebook post, her mother is a senior citizen who has lived in the home for 24 years. She said different children have repeatedly come to the house to kick the front door, causing damage and leaving her mother anxious about the ongoing disturbances.
Nassau County police said officers responded to a 911 call regarding the incidents and have increased patrols in the area.
“When you do damage to somebody’s house, then I can see that it’s an issue,” said Massapequa Park resident Paul Sumakis.
Michael Alcazar, a retired NYPD detective and adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, said the children involved could face legal consequences.
“They’re absolutely breaking the law,” Alcazar said. “What I would do if it was happening at my home or in my community is just keep calling the police.”
Alcazar said parents can be held financially responsible for damage caused by their children.
“They need to educate their kids. This is not funny. It’s not a prank, it’s a crime,” Alcazar said. “If they do damage to people’s property, they’re going to get arrested.”
Meanwhile, neighbors are rallying around the homeowner. Sumakis said residents have offered to help repair the damaged door and support the woman during the ordeal.
“I feel bad for her. I’m sorry about that,” he said.
Police have not announced any arrests. Residents hope the increased patrols and public attention will put an end to the repeated incidents.
