A mask wearing man who carries a legal length knife and walks between Nederland and Port Neches was taken into custody without incident on non-criminal charges on Wednesday.

Nederland Police Chief Darrell Bush said the man is 25-years-old and lives with his mother in Nederland.

“He has not harmed anyone that we know of,” Bush said. “I understand how people may feel threatened however, unless he violates the law we can’t arrest him.”

The man, whose name has not been released, has been trespass warned from several local businesses and has been compliant with the issue.

Port Neches Police Chief Paul Lemoine said the man has been seen in Port Neches as well but has not committed any crimes.

“The family made arrangements to get him some help,” Lemoine said. “Most of the issues he has are not a criminal justice issue.”

Local residents voiced concern via different Facebook groups such as Crime Watch Mid-County and on individual sites. Comments ranged from fear — where some said they would do hard to the man is he were to enter their yard, to pity for a man they believe has a mental illness.

The man typically is seen wearing a dark colored hoodie, dark mask and visibly carrying a knife.

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