Police on Alert after Attempted Child Abductions in Central PA
By: Stef Davis
Updated: March 7, 2012
Williamsport, Lycoming County--Six attempted child abductions in three months...police say it's a number that's just too high to overlook.
Capt Kontz, Williamsport police, says, "The number of incidents made us want to get together. This is not just happening in Williamsport, but in South Williamsport, and Old Lycoming Township too."
The most recent incident happened just last week in Old Lycoming Township.
A white van with tinted windows approached a 12-year-old boy.
And while the attempted abductions are alarming, police want parents to keep a cool head.
Chief Bill Solomon, Old Lycoming Twp police, says, "Don't let the paranoia sink in, but at the same time be serious and talk to your kids."
Officer Jason Bolt is the Williamsport Area School District resource officer.
He says using the word "stranger" can be confusing to kids since many times people the children know are actually the abductors.
Officer Jason Bolt, says, "Don't use the word "stranger" instead say don't get into a car unless it's with me. Have a plan in place."
At this point, no one has been arrested for these crimes, but police say they are following leads and investigating each and every child luring report.
They are keeping the lines of communication open between departments to benefit the entire community.
Crpl. Finnerty, South Williamsport police, says, "We are working together to share as much information as possible."
Police are asking parents not to panic but to be serious and talk to their kids about the dangers. And of course if there are incidents report them to police.