Ottawa police are warning young people in West Ottawa to be on alert after a suspicious male approached young girls in the area of Moodie Dr. and Richmond Rd., near Anwatin St. in Bell's Corners.
On Sept. 20, a man driving a black, mid-sized four-door car approached a 12-year-old girl, asking if she wanted a chocolate bar.
The suspect then exposed himself to her.
On Sept. 25, two 10-year-old girls were approached by a man driving a black car who said “hi” to them.
He then followed the girls in his vehicle to their housing complex.
The suspect is described as a white male in his 30’s or 40’s, with short dark hair and possibly wearing glasses.
In both incidents, the girls were approached in broad daylight on their way to school. Some schools in the area have sent home letters warning parents.
Ottawa police say parents should review safety tips with their children, and kids should avoid walking alone.
Police say children should make sure a family member or caregiver knows their route home, and what time they are expected to arrive.
Kids should not speak to strangers, accept rides from strangers, or approach a stranger’s vehicle if someone inside the car is trying to get their attention.
Police also say if children are being followed, they should go to a public place, a known residence, or yell for help.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Ottawa police (613) 236-1222, Ext. 5944 or Phone Crime Stoppers at (613) 233- 8477 (TIPS).
With files from CTV’s Catherine Lathem.
