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The unidentified girl, a student from the Hawthrone Cedar Knolls residential treatment center, had left the center before she entered the family's Marietta Avenue home just before 3 p.m. on Monday, said Lt. Robert Miliambro.
"We aren't positive, but believe the girl wanted to call the center to come pick her up," Miliambro said.
While in the house, the teen stole granola bars and a utility knife, he added.
Police believe the incident may have been blown out of proportion online and that, although the teen frightened the homeowners and committed a crime, did not intend to harm them.
The Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services, which runs the center, said: “We fully recognize the concern that this incident has caused in our community and we are speaking directly with residents to address their concerns. We are closing intake of the facility while we review admission criteria and safety protocols. As always, the safety of our residents and the community is our highest priority.”
Police arrested the teen and charged her with burglary and possession of stolen property.
She was being held at the Westchester County Jail until her next court hearing on Thursday.
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