Male who allegedly offered candy to kids ID'd
3/25/2006Perrysburg police said last night that they have identified a vehicle believed to have been involved in reports of a male offering candy to children near Toth Elementary School on three afternoons this week.
Investigators also said that they have interviewed a male juvenile associated with the vehicle, and will refer the matter to the Wood County Juvenile Prosecutor's Office. None of the children approached the vehicle. All ran to safety.
After reports of the incidents, police placed both marked and unmarked cars and uniformed and plainclothes officers near all Perrysburg schools, Sgt. J.D. Justus said.
He said the police chief and mayor authorized overtime for the surveillance.
On Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, police received complaints that a male in a vehicle pulled over near Toth Elementary, 200 East Seventh St. near Elm Street, and offered candy to boys and girls walking home.
Police said the incidents occurred on different streets near the school at 3:45 p.m., 15 minutes after the school day's end.
Police believe the same person was involved in each incident.
School officials warned students about the incidents and notified parents. The police department reminded children not to approach strange vehicles.
"Do what these kids did and run to a safe place," Sergeant Justus said.