Police May Lure Bears Out of Chatham Neighborhood

Chatham Township police will try to coerce bears to move out of neighborhoods where the bruins have caused "a great deal of alarm" among residents this year, police said in an alert Friday.

The alert said police are limited in what actions they may take unless bears act aggressively, and the bruins pose "a unique challenge" to the agency.

This summer, bears in Chatham were tracked by police, frightened away by sirens, and caught checking out open garages.

In September, a bear was seen by people waiting at a school bus stop.

"As some of you may know, we have had a few bears visit the township this year," the alert from Chatham Township police said. "Unlike in past years, this year the bear sightings have caused a great deal of alarm amongst a number of our residents. As always, the Chatham Township Police Department and its members are committed to protecting our residents from harm, or fear of harm no matter how big or small.

"Unfortunately, bears that wander into the township present a unique challenge to our agency. Unless the bear is aggressive, enters a residence or causes substantial property damage, we are limited on what actions we can take. 

"If you see a bear in your neighborhood, please contact the police. We will make every effort to coerce and harass the bear to move on to the next neighborhood and eventually into the next community. 

"There are things that you can do to help. Please visit the link below to better educate yourself on Bear Facts."