You did the right thing. You didn’t meet them with hostility. You alerted the authorities, who could then determine if there was a problem. I’d have done the same thing.
After reading this thread, I googled a little and discovered that there is some evidence that sexually abusing children is a problem among JWs. As I understand it, most transgressions of any kind are first reported to the church. If the alleged wrongdoer doesn’t confess, no further action is taken unless there are at least 2 witnesses. Obviously, there are rarely two witnesses to child sexual abuse. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jehovah%27s_Witnesses%27_handling_of_child_sex_abuse
Recently, in part because of legal action taken by some states, local JW communities have begun to let their members know that it is all right to report abuse to civil authorities–usually the police–even if the 2 witness standard isn’t met.
As a Catholic, I’m not about to criticize JWs for how they have treated child sexual abuse complaints. People who worship in glass houses…
That said, after reading the link above,I’m more convinced than ever that the OP did the right thing.
Friend said “it’s not unheard of.” Typically small groups travel in cars together with parents and children. Often one person in the group might take one of the children door knocking but never out of sight of their parents. At least in her church.
My opinion? Trust your gut. If it seemed “off” (particularly when it comes to kids) you’re not wrong to alert authorities.
When I called the police department, I learned from the dispatcher that even though my community has a registration requirement before soliciting door-to-door, it doesn’t apply to people who are going door-to-door for religious or political reasons (First Amendment). I never knew that.
Rest assured, you were the first one being judged in this situation! ?
No worries regarding your actions.