Sex Offender Frequenting Rye Library

(Story updated Thursday afternoon with comments from the Rye library.)

Rye PD is advising the community of a Level 2 Sex Offender frequenting the area, specifically the Rye Free Reading Room. On Wednesday, Rye PD was notified by two teens of a non-criminal encounter with a  black male at the Rye Public Library. The man was interviewed by detectives and stated he frequents the Rye library.

The police identified the party as 29 year old Wale Gai, a homeless man who is registered as a Level 2 sex offender. Level 2 indicates a “moderate risk of repeat offense”, according to the New York State Sex Offender Registry. State records show Gai was convicted in June of 2019 for Rape in the 3rd degree in a crime involving a 14 year old girl. The crime took place May 1, 2018 and the arresting agency was the Mt. Vernon Police Department.

“The Rye Free Reading Room worked with the teens and their parents to document the encounters and report the incidents to the police,” said Rye Free Reading Room Director Chris Shoemaker. “After the police identified the individual, the library filled out a trespassing complaint against him to bar him from any future access to the library. Staff have been notified to call the police immediately if he is seen in the area.

“Thanks to the policies set in place by the Board, and the trust our patrons have in the staff, we were able to quickly address the matter and involve the appropriate authorities. The library has policies in place to prevent unaccompanied adults in specific areas, such as the Teen Room, Children’s Room, and Discovery Zone, and staff regularly monitor those spaces and enforce those rules.”

Shoemaker expressed this thanks to the Rye PD for its support and quick response.

The police released the following on Gai: Wale D. Gai, male black, 5’9” brown eyes and slim build. Gai is selective mute and is known to communicate by showing text messages on his phone. His last known address is 25 Operations Drive, Valhalla, New York 10595.

PD reminds residents that while the information about this individual is being disseminated to raise awareness, it is important to remember that there is no known imminent threat to the community. However, residents are encouraged to be cautious and take appropriate safety measures.

Safety Measures

Rye PD shared these safety measures

• Be Vigilant: Remain aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately.
• Talk to Children: Discuss personal safety measures with your children and emphasize the importance of reporting any inappropriate behavior.
• Access Information: Information regarding registered sex offenders in New York State can be found on the New York State Sex Offender Registry website.