Man tried luring children into a van in New London, police say

NEW LONDON, CT (WFSB) – A man tried to lure children into a van in New London last week, according to police.

Police told Channel 3 that they have been talking to more than one middle schooler about it.

It happened near the Bennie Dover Middle School.

The vehicle involved was described as a white van with tinted windows, New London police said.

Authorities said the man was white/Hispanic with black hair and a black/gray beard.

“Our agency is in contact with and collaborating with the New London Public School system regarding these reports,” New London police said.

On social media, the department posted tips for reporting suspicious activity, and helping children stay safe:

They recommended staying in groups, staying aware of surroundings, and screaming if danger is seen.

“Scream, yell, make as loud a sound as you possibly can. Scream for help,” said Capt. Matt Galante, New London police. “There are strength in numbers. We encourage kids walking home from school to walk together.”

Police urged parents to talk with their kids and find out if they have been approached.

“It makes me terrified; it makes me sick to my stomach,” said Mystique Elefante.

Elefante has an infant daughter. She is disturbed by reports of a man in a white van approaching school children.

“It makes me afraid for my daughter to grow up,” Elefante said.

“Any and all reports should be brought to the New London Police department immediately,” said Galante.

Police are working to find out exactly how many students were approached and told parents to have a conversation with your child.

Remind them what to do if a stranger comes up to them.

Tracey Converse has already had those conversations with her grandson.

“Back off stay away,” Converse said. “Stay away from strangers, if someone with a van comes by and says ‘hey I got some puppies’ do not go near that van.”

Police said it’s also a good idea for students to walk in a group. Keep their cell phones on them and if approached, yell and scream.

“They could pick up any kid and do anything to them,” said Converse.

“Rumors get spread especially in middle, high, even elementary school, one kid says something, and it gets portrayed in the wrong way,” Elefante said.

Police said they have had extra patrols around the middle school.

If the person is caught, police said they’ll face risk of injury to a minor charges, and possibly even kidnapping charges.

Anyone with information about the man was asked to call New London police at 860-447-5269 extension 0.