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Person of interest identified in swimming pool abduction attempt

Posted at 10:22 AM, Jul 18, 2013
and last updated 2013-07-18 12:52:44-04

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - Richmond police have identified a person of interest in an attempted abduction near a city pool.

"Detectives are currently consulting with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office to determine possible charges," police wrote in a Thursday morning statement.

A 10-year-old girl reported a man tried to persuade her into his vehicle as she walked to the Powhatan Community pool on Apperson Street Tuesday afternoon.

“She knew better, her parents had taught her well she wanted no part of that but he kept circling the block trying to get her to come in the vehicle,” Richmond Police Lt. Dan Minton said on Tuesday.

Police asked anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.

Below are summer safety tips to share with your children:

  • Know how to give a police officer her name, address, and home phone number.
  • Never accept candy or gifts from a stranger.
  • Know how to use the telephone to call home, other places you might be, and 911 in an emergency.
  • Never tell anyone over the phone or at the front door that he's home alone.
  • Never go anywhere with a stranger, even if it sounds like fun.
  • Know what to do (such as look for a police officer, approach a cashier, or call your cell phone collect) if you become separated in a public place.
  • Say "no" and then leave quickly if a stranger asks her to "help" with something that another adult could do.
  • Run away and scream if someone follows him or tries to force him into a car.
  • Say "no" to anyone who tries to make her do something you've said is wrong or touch her in a way that makes her feel uncomfortable.
  • Always tell you or another trusted adult if a stranger asks personal questions, exposes himself, or otherwise makes him feel uneasy, even if the person made him promise not to tell or threatened him in some way.
  • Avoid alleys and vacant lots when walking to school or a friend's house.