Just before 3 p.m., Portsmouth Police were dispatched to Bloom Street after a caller reported feeling threatened by people outside his home.
The man claimed two groups of individuals, one in a Honda and the other in a tan SUV, were outside and acting suspiciously. He also reported that an older man with a cane knocked on his front door and refused to leave when asked, saying he was “looking for Mary” before walking away a few minutes later.
No direct threats were made, and officers did not observe any criminal behavior when they arrived on the scene.
A Pattern of Fear?
According to police, the same caller has made multiple similar reports in recent days, often citing fears that people are following or targeting him. He told officers he had previously been involved in an incident in the county and now believes people are out to get him.
At this time, officers found no evidence of criminal activity and advised the caller accordingly.
The Bigger Picture
While this specific situation didn’t rise to the level of a crime, it highlights the often unseen struggles that come with paranoia, trauma, or mental health concerns — especially when left unaddressed. In a city already coping with a growing homelessness and addiction crisis, officers are frequently called to navigate complex human situations that don’t always fall neatly within the lines of criminal law.
In this case, officers defused the situation without incident. But it’s another reminder that not all emergencies are criminal — some are cries for stability and safety.
