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Police have charged a 28-year-old Ottawa man following reports of at least two incidents of a man in a panel truck attempting to lure young children in Stittsville.
The Ottawa Police Service said in a release on Friday that on Sept. 2 and Sept. 4 a man drove up beside young children walking along streets and offered them candy before driving away.
In another incident, the person invited young children to see what was in the back of his van.
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On both occasions the children refused and called for help, police said.
Alaa Rajab was charged Wednesday with six counts of harassment by threatening conduct to another person and four counts of uttering threats.
He was to appear in court at a later date, the police release said.
Investigators believed there could be further victims and other unreported incidents, it added.
The suspect is described as middle eastern in appearance and standing five feet 11 inches (180 centimetres) tall with a slim, muscular build. At the time of the incidents, he had a “clean-cut, black beard” and short, black hair.
He was driving a white panel van with tinted windows and a black Stealth enclosed trailer.
Police also reminded parents to frequently review tips for children with respect to safety rules. Parents should teach kids what to do when approached by strangers.
Where possible, avoid walking alone. But, if it’s necessary, remembers these tips:
- Ensure a family member or caregiver knows your route and arrival time;
- Do not talk to strangers;
- Do not accept rides from strangers;
- If an unknown adult is seeking your attention, do not approach them or the vehicle;
- If being followed, go to a public place, a known residence or shout for help.
Anyone with information about the Stittsville incidents was asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service west criminal investigation section at 613-236-1222, ext. 2666.
Anonymous tips can be made to Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca.
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