Nov. 6, 2008


Safety message

We have received information that the Wheaton Police Department is investigating a reported incident that may have been a child-abduction attempt. No child was harmed and no physical contact was made.

The alleged incident occurred on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at 5 p.m. in front of the Monroe Middle School, 1855 Manchester Rd., Wheaton. A female student was waiting outside the school to be picked up by her parents when she was offered a ride by an adult male unknown to her. The driver did not attempt to entice the student into the car and drove away after a short time.

The driver was described as a clean-shaven white male in his twenties, of medium build, wearing a T-shirt and sunglasses. The vehicle was a boxy turquoise sedan bearing Illinois plates.

This incident was reported in Wheaton, and there have been no such reports in the District 41 area at this time. However, please take this opportunity to talk to your child calmly about stranger danger. Even teens need to be reminded about safe practices. The TASK strategy is a good one to follow: Talk with your child about strangers and safety, and about specific ploys that may be used by strangers. Ask them what they heard you say, so you can correct any misunderstandings. Show them how to walk safely and how to safely ask for help. Make sure they Know who, when, and how to get help. Anytime you or your child sees or is aware of suspicious behavior, call 911 without hesitation. The Glen Ellyn Police advises parents to tell their children that if they are ever approached by an unknown person offering them a ride, they should immediately report this to a trusted adult, who should call 911.

District 41 is vigilant on behalf of student safety. The district maintains a strong partnership with the Glen Ellyn Police Department, which is a regular presence around all District 41 schools.

Thank you for your help in keeping the safety of District 41 students at the forefront of everything we do.

Wouldn't be a great idea if the local schools installed security cameras on and about the premises? They are cheap, and make an expert witness. Just a thought.

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