(CITY OF TEMISKAMING SHORES, ON.) – Members of the Temiskaming Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating an incident involving a suspicious male. On March 8th, 2016 members of the Temiskaming detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a call regarding a suspicious male/vehicle in the area of the Haileybury Public School. It was also reported at that time that approximately two weeks ago, two children were walking home after school when they observed a lone male driving a blue or green Jeep Cherokee or Liberty. The male made obscene gestures towards them. On more than one occasion the same male was also observed on foot in the area of the school. This male also followed children for a short distance and attempted to get their attention. The male was observed wearing a thin dark coat and dark colored gloves. Male was described as being in his 40’s or 50’s, bald with pale skin.
The OPP encourage parents to educate their children about personal safety and strangers. Here are some safety tips:
Remind your child to not to go anywhere with strangers, not to talk to strangers and not to take anything from them.
Encourage your child to use a buddy system when walking and to always tell someone where they are going.
Do not enter a stranger’s residence or friend’s house without advising your parents.
Never approach or enter a stranger’s vehicle. If the vehicle stops, move away from it.
Don’t take shortcuts through vacant parks, fields, wooded areas and isolated areas.
If you are being followed, run home or go to the nearest public place and ask for help.
“The OPP treats all incidents involving children seriously” stated Inspector Brent Cecchini the Detachment Commander of the Temiskaming Shore OPP. “Today take time to sit with your child and go over safety rules regarding strangers”.
Any person with information regarding this suspect should contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1888-310-1122 or their nearest police authority.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit information online at www.tipsubmit.com where you may eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000