by Geoff Fox & Kate Shunney
Hancock Police found no evidence of a potential kidnapping in town after an investigation on Tuesday, September 30 and shared their assessment of a situation that grabbed attention locally following a social media post by a local parent.
Police confirmed they had received a report that day concerning a potential kidnapping incent within the town limits.
Local business owner Rachael Truitt shared her account of what had happened with her daughter in downtown Hancock early last week, stating that her child had walked across the street to get ice cream at lunchtime and had encountered three men who approached her.
According to Truitt, two women with a child with them saw the incident and ran to assist her daughter.
Truitt called the Hancock police, who she said responded quickly. She shared a photo of a vehicle showing a Texas license plate.
Hancock officers responded promptly to the incident and conducted a thorough investigation into the matter, Chief Allan Thomas said in a press release the following day.
Following the investigation, police found no evidence and no charges have been filed. In the release dated October 1, Thomas and the police said at that time, there was no indication of any threat to children or the general public in Hancock.
“The alleged incident has been circulating on social media, and while we understand the concern this may cause, we want to reassure residents that there is no verified threat,” Thomas said in the release. “We encourage the public to rely on official sources for accurate information and updates.”
Truitt’s original post, as of last Thursday morning, had over 750 shares on Facebook, spreading the message widely.
In it, she indicated she had heard of other incidences of men targeting children in the area, and warning of that danger.
Police Chief Thomas said the Hancock Police Department urges parents and guardians to remain vigilant in watching over their children and taking steps to ensure their safety.
“Community awareness and proactive involvement are key to maintaining a safe environment,” he said.
He also said residents are urged to call 911 for emergencies and 1-800-792-8501 for non-emergency concerns.
“We remain committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and appreciate the continued cooperation of the community,” Thomas said.
