The Champaign Police Department is reminding the public to continue talking with children about what to do, if approached by a stranger.
Adults are reminded not to approach children without parental consent asking or offering favors. Gestures such as offering rides, hugs, ice cream or candy to children may be considered illegal or inappropriate behavior and cause alarm to both children and parents.
Today, the Department received a report of a man who allegedly approached a 12 year-old girl in the 1200 block of N. Neil Street as she was walking to school. The unknown man asked her if she would stop and talk with him, if she wanted a ride, and also inquired about where she was going. The vehicle was described as a bluish-purple, older model, passenger van, with lettering on the side of the van, both above the windows and alongside the bottom of the van. The lettering on the top contained writing resembling the letters Hilliton.” The suspect is described as an older black male with salt and pepper colored hair with a gray mustache.
The Champaign Police Department is working closely with the Unit #4 School District to address all reports made of children being approached by unknown adults.
“Abduction and Harm Prevention Tips for Parents and Guardians” can be found online at: The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children® .
The public is urged to contact law enforcement with any information. Information can be reported to the Champaign Police Department by calling (217) 351-4545, or callers can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 373-8477 (TIPS). Information can also be sent by anonymous web tip by going to: www.373tips.com or by texting keyword “CCTIP” plus the information to 274637 (CRIMES). Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1000 for information leading to an arrest.
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