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The story of missing Edgemont resident Lauren Spierer has Greenburgh parents reflecting on how to make sure their children are safe both this summer and upon their return to campus in the fall.
Spierer, a 2009 graduate of Edgemont High School, was last seen on Friday, June 3 near Indiana University where she recently completed her sophomore year. After 17 days, police still continue their search.
Even though Greenburgh's crime rate has dropped from 2009 to 2010, said Police Chief Joe DeCarlo, parents still aim to protect their children, educating them about keeping safe.
Jasmine Johnson, 17, who will be graduating from Elmsford's Alexander Hamilton High School this week, will attend Westchester Community College in the fall to study visual arts.
"She'll be right here in the area, but I do plan on talking with her about several things in regards to school and being safe," said mother Tanya Johnson.
Johnson will be relying on public transportation, taxicabs and her mother to travel to and from school.
"I want her to be more conscious of what she's doing and where," said Tanya. "That's why we'll be chatting about how to look out for yourself and what to do in case I'm not there when she's out and about by herself."
Even Paul Feiner, Greenburgh Town Supervisor, has taken extra precautions for his daughter, 12. He said he feels that becoming a bit more disciplinary about her safety will instill her with good judgment.
"I'm telling her how important it is to be extra careful," Feiner said. "I'm definitely stepping up my efforts as a parent [in that regard]."
As an elected official to the community, Feiner said he has followed the Spierer case from day one, discussing the event and his constituents' subsequent thoughts.
"It's very nerve-wracking," said Feiner. "I was nervous. A lot of people are nervous because this can happen to anybody."
Let us know what you and your family are doing to protect your children in light of Lauren Spierer's disappearance.
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