Public Safety Alert – Suspicious Male

Investigators from the 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau would like to alert the public about a suspicious male, seen in the area of Hurontario Street and Mineola Road, who accosted a nine year-old girl.

On Tuesday, March 30, 2010, at approximately 8:11 p.m., a nine year-old girl was riding her bike in the area of Avonbridge Drive. At this time she was approached by an unknown male, who entered the street from a nearby greenbelt.

Upon reaching the girl, the male had grabbed her and demanded that she come with him. In response, the girl screamed – causing the male to flee back to the greenbelt.

The male is described as white, 5’8” tall, with a medium build, brown hair, yellow teeth and approximately 40 years old. He was last seen wearing a black, full length, buttoned winter jacket or heavy sweater, black pants, black gloves and a black toque. He reportedly had a foul odour about him.

Investigators believe that this male may frequent the area and that area residents may have seen him prior to this incident.

Anyone with information pertaining to this incident is asked to contact the 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at (905) 453-2121, ext. 1233. Anonymous tips may also be submitted via Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), at www.peelcrimestoppers.ca or by texting “PEEL”, followed by your tip, to CRIMES (274637). Information leading to an arrest may qualify for a cash reward.

Peel Regional Police would like to remind members of the public that safety is a shared responsibility and it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Some suggested safety tips are:

-Plan your route and avoid short-cuts through parks, vacant lots or unlit areas;
-Know where your local police station is, or where after-hour stores are located;
-Avoid being alone if you can. Get a friend to accompany you. If they can’t, let them know the route you’re taking and call when you arrive;
-Don’t carry large sums of money or unnecessary valuables. Use cash alternatives such as debit cards;
-Don’t carry a purse; use a waist-belt, or other similar storage device, instead; and
-If someone grabs your valuables, do not resist.