Two girls playing at an Alliston area park refused to go with a man that provincial police allege approached them and tried to convince them to go with him in a vehicle.
OPP say the girls were playing at Treetop Park around 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday when the man spoke with them.
They refused the offer and police were notified immediately.
A 45-year-old from New Tecumseth has been charged with:
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
- Attempt abduction of a person under the age of 14 - three counts
- Mischief
The accused was held pending a bail hearing.
Investigators are urging anyone with any dash cam footage, or home surveillance in the immediate area or anyone with additional information to contact the Nottawasaga OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). When you contact Crime Stoppers, you remain anonymous, you will never have to testify, and you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
The OPP would like parents to share the following safety tips with their children:
- Share the golden rule: Always seek permission from a trusted adult before going anywhere with anyone.
- Consistent repetition is crucial. Reinforce these messages at each stage of a child's development.
- Safety in numbers is a must. Encourage children to travel in pairs or groups, taking the same route and checking in upon arrival.
- Teach children to steer clear of approaching vehicles. If approached, they should run in the opposite direction and promptly inform a trusted adult.
- Emphasize that unknown adults should never ask children for help. Children should run and report to a trusted adult. It's not their responsibility to assist adults seeking help or looking for a lost pet without proper authorization.
- Establish a family password for added security. Share it with anyone authorized to pick up your child. This extra layer of protection counters tricks predators might employ.
- Encourage children to use their voices. If in a dangerous situation, they should yell loudly to attract attention, in addition to kicking, hitting and pushing away.
- Above all, instill trust in children's instincts. If something feels wrong or unsafe, it's okay for them to leave the situation immediately and seek help from a trusted adult.
For more information on how to keep kids safe, visit www.protectchildren.ca.
