Lincoln Police warn of man trying to entice children into his car
The Driver is described as a dark-complected male in his 30s with long curly black hair
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The Lincoln Police Department is investigating a report of child enticement that happened Tuesday afternoon.
Two children were walking home from St. Michaels School when they were approached by a male near South 83rd Street and Yankee Woods Drive.
The children, ages 11 and 7, told police the man approached them in a light-colored, 4-door car and asked them if they wanted a ride.
The children said they did not know the male and ran from the area after saying no.
Dennis Kellogg, the communications director of the Diocese of Lincoln, said this was a lucky situation. He said it’s important that parents raise the topic with their children to avoid any unsafe situations in the future.
“This gives us another opportunity to revisit the fact that we need to be talking with students about making sure that they’re not talking to strangers and they are walking home, they’re walking straight home,” Kellogg said.
Kellogg said St. Michael’s is increasing security around the school for now.
“Before and after school, we’ll have extra teacher patrols out there, and the Lincoln police will also have extra patrols out there just to make sure that our students are safe,” Kellogg said, “That’s always our top priority.”
Captain Todd Kocian with Lincoln Police had some tips for parents to bring up with their children when they have the “stranger danger” discussion.
“Many parents carpool. It’s just always important to communicate that message ahead of time with the child,” Kocian said. “That way the parents and the child are both on the same page and one or the other is not wondering who’s picking them up that day.”
He also said parents should make sure their children know their phone numbers, and it’s best to walk with them to and from school a few times until they are confident in the route.
Kocian also suggests that you show them alternate ways to get to school and home.
“You ever hear that adage ‘there’s safety in numbers?’ That’s true to some point,” Kocian said. “With more people together, we’ve got more eyes looking out. They’re looking out for each other.”
Police say the driver is described as a dark-complected male in his 30s with long curly black hair.
The vehicle was last seen at that intersection.
The Lincoln Police Department is asking anyone with information or who captured video of the vehicle, to come forward by calling 402-441.6000. If they wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 402-475-3600.
