Officials: Letter Threatening Arrests During Nassau County Mosquito Spraying Is A Hoax

MINEOLA, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A hoax letter is being mailed to some Nassau County residents claiming they could be arrested if they go outside while helicopters are spraying neighborhoods for mosquitoes, officials said.

Police are warning residents about the letter, which says it's from the "Nassau County Mosquito Spraying Division" and is signed by "Supervisor Charles Mangano."

WEB EXTRA: Read The Complete Letter

"On the day of your town being sprayed, it is important for all children to stay inside their houses with the doors and windows closed," the letter reads. "Please do not answer the door. Spray is extremely dangerous and could be deadly. All children must be inside there (sic) house 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Police will be driving in the area to arrest any person outside during that time."

The letter includes dates and areas where it claims spraying is occurring over five Saturdays, starting on Halloween.

"This information is completely false," Officer Eloise Abdullah told WCBS 880's Sophia Hall. "Nassau County is not spraying for mosquitoes in the county this season."

The Health Department added that there is no need to spray now because mosquito season is nearly over.