Police are investigating an incident where a child was approached by a man in Bellingen last Wednesday.
The incident occurred about 3.15pm on Wednesday, September 5, on Church Street, Bellingen. A ten-year-old girl was walking home from school when a car pulled up alongside her.
The male driver offered the girl a ride.
She ignored the man and walked away before reporting the matter to her parents.
He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 30 to 40 years old, with brown hair and blue eyes.
He was driving a silver convertible with a black leather roof that was down at the time.
Police conducted a canvass of the area, but did not locate the man.
Police now wish to speak with a man who may be able to assist with these inquiries.
Detectives from Coffs-Clarence Local Area Command are investigating the incident and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Meanwhile, parents are again being encouraged to teach their children the ‘Safe People, Safe Places’ messages, including:
nMake sure your parents or another adult you know knows where you are at all times.
nAlways walk straight home or to the place you are walking to. Walk near busier roads and streets, or use paths where there are lots of other people.
nKnow where safe places are — a shop, service station, police station, library or school. If you are ever frightened, you should go to one of these places and ask them to call the police.
n Learn about safe adults you can look for and talk to if you need help — police officers, teachers at school, adults you know and trust.
nDon’t talk to people you don’t know and never get into a car with someone you don’t know. If a car stops on the side of the road and you don’t know the person inside, do not stop.
n If you are scared and can use a phone, call 000 and tell them you are scared.
nIf someone tries to grab you, yell out, ‘Go away, I don’t know you’. This lets other people know you have been approached by someone you don’t know.
