At 10:50pm on September 5, 2018, the Princeton Police Department received a report of an attempted child luring that took place approximately 4 hours earlier at 5pm. The 10 yr old victim was walking on Prospect Avenue heading home from her friend’s residence when she noticed a red sedan or coupe- “Mazda type car” with a “stock looking spoiler” on the back traveling south on Riverside Drive East. The vehicle passed her location, made a u-turn and then traveled north on Riverside Drive East. The vehicle then made a left onto Prospect Avenue, and stopped in the near the victim.
The driver, described as Caucasian male, 40-50 years old, thinning light brown hair, wearing a yellow shirt, asked the victim, “Are you ok? Do you need a ride?” The victim responded that she was fine and did not need any assistance. The driver asked, “Where are you going?” The victim responded “home” and continued to walk. The vehicle made a u-turn and traveled east on Prospect Avenue before turning right and traveling south on Riverside Drive East.
This incident remains under investigation and Princeton Police have added additional patrols to area as a precaution. Additionally, this information has been forwarded to New Jersey State Police C.A.L.L.S (Child Attempted Luring Linkage System). If anyone has any information please contact Det. Robert Allie of the Princeton Police Detective Bureau at 609-921-2100 ext. 2123 or call our confidential tip line at 609-688-2049.
At this time it appears to be an isolated incident, however if remains under investigation. Moments like these can be used as teachable moments to refresh a child’s memory on how be safe when away from home. Hear are some tips to help keep your children safe.
1. As this child was able to do, remind kids to pay more than passing attention to to the vehicle and suspect when they are suspicious or afraid.
2. Report the incident IMMEDIATELY or as soon as you can. Officers arriving on scene in a timely manner have a better opportunity to locate the suspect.
3. Tell children to be aware of their surroundings.Don’t wear headphones and don’t play games on phones while walking.
4. Tell kids if they do get grabbed or accosted, they should kick, scream, punch, bite (if hands/fingers are covering their mouth)) and yell for help.
5. Never stop to talk or get into a vehicle driven by someone they do not know.
