Police/Fire/EMS

Bear and Cub Spotted in New City Area, Clarkstown Police Urge Caution

Published

7 months ago

November 4, 2025

New City, N.Y. — Clarkstown Police Dispatchers have received multiple reports of a bear and cub roaming near Squadron Boulevard in New City. The most recent sighting was reported near Route 304, according to police.

Officials are reminding residents that black bears are a natural part of New York’s wildlife and generally avoid human contact. However, homeowners are encouraged to take precautions to minimize the chance of attracting bears to their property.

According to guidance from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), residents should:
► Keep garage doors and ground-floor windows closed at night.
► Store garbage, pet food, and bird seed inside a shed, garage, or home — and remove outdoor bird feeders.
► If you use an invisible fence for pets, keep them on a leash in areas where bears have been seen.

Officials emphasize that black bears are not typically aggressive toward humans and should not be feared. The key, they say, is to remain calm, give the animals plenty of space, and avoid approaching or feeding them.

(Photo is a stock image — not of the bear spotted in New City.)

Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Officers Help Free Bear Cub Trapped by Container in Hillburn

Published

21 hours ago

June 6, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

This afternoon, officers from the Ramapo Police Department responded to Brook Street in Hillburn after receiving a report of a bear cub with a container stuck on its head.

Upon arrival, officers worked alongside the concerned caller to safely remove the container, freeing the cub from what could have become a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation.

Once released, the bear cub quickly ran off into the nearby woods unharmed.

The Ramapo Police Department appreciates the caller’s vigilance and willingness to assist. Quick reporting and community awareness can make a significant difference, not only for public safety but also for the welfare of local wildlife.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of properly disposing of containers and other waste that can pose hazards to animals. Thanks to the combined efforts of a concerned resident and responding officers, this young bear was able to safely return to its natural habitat.

Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Participate in Countywide Gun Buyback Initiative

Published

1 day ago

June 6, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Rockland County Sheriff’s Office hosted a successful Gun Buyback Event, and the Ramapo Police Department was proud to participate in this collaborative community safety initiative alongside the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, the Spring Valley Police Department, and the New York State Police.

Together, agencies collected a total of 19 firearms, including 11 handguns, 3 assault rifles, and 5 long guns.

Every firearm voluntarily surrendered represents one less opportunity for a weapon to be lost, stolen, misused, or involved in a tragedy. Gun buyback programs play an important role in reducing the number of unwanted firearms in our communities and promoting public safety.

The Ramapo Police Department is proud to support these efforts and remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to help build a safer community for all.