Police Warn Sylmar Parents About Suspected Child Predator
SYLMAR (CBSLA.com) — Police warned Sylmar parents Tuesday about a man in his early 20s who has been seen lurking around young girls.
The suspect has approached at least three girls as young as 12 years old on several occasions since May 3 in the area of Dronfield Avenue and Tyler Street, according to Lt. Paul Vernon of the Los Angeles Police Department's Mission Station.
The most recent incident happened a week ago.
The suspect typically calls out to his victims from his car or approaches them on the sidewalk, said Vernon.
In one case, he even ordered a girl to go into his car.
"The school district and school police are aware of the situation and we have sent officers to patrol near Sylmar High School and Olive Vista Middle School near where the incidents have occurred," Vernon said.
The suspect is described as being of medium height with a heavy build and short hair.
He drives a black 1995 Toyota Camry with a license plate that ends in 880.
"We have a good idea who this person is, but we don't have enough to get a warrant yet," Vernon said. "In the meantime, we want the public to be aware of the incidents and we encourage other victims to come forward with other incidents or sightings near the school."
Anyone with information about the case was encouraged to call Det. Stephen Bell of the Mission Station's Sex Unit at (818) 838-9971.
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