There have been several stories today claiming that neighbors called police about strange behavior at Ariel Castro’s home on two or three occasions — naked women on all fours in the backyard, people banging on windows in the house, etc. But Cleveland police are saying that’s not so. They say that only two calls were logged to that home — one from Castro himself and another about Castro but in reference to his work as a school bus driver. Full statement after the jump.
Reminder: Media are encouraged to confirm reports from unofficial sources prior to presenting information to the public. For example, we have received multiple media inquiries regarding reports of naked women and women in chains at the Seymour home. Upon researching our call intake system extensively, only two calls for service from police are shown at that address. One call was from the resident, Ariel Castro, reporting a fight in the street. The second call was in relation to an incident regarding Ariel Castro and his duties as a bus driver. Police investigated the possibility that Castro had left a child unattended on a school bus. The investigation included an interview with Castro; however, officers did not enter the home. No charges were filed in that incident.
Given the level of criticism they’re currently receiving, I’m not sure we can take the department’s statement at face value. But recollections of neighbors might not be perfect either. So worth noting. Original statement here.
