The Nassau County Police Department is advising the public of five incidents of children being approached by man driving a black van.
The children have all been female, and ranged from eight to 16 years old. In two incidents, the subject attempted to entice the children with the offer of candy. In three of the incidents, the children were walking to or from school.
The suspect is described as a black male, 20 to 30 years of age, driving a black vehicle, possibly a van or SUV, with what could be a dent on the right rear door, and possibly tinted windows.
The reported incident times and locations were:
April 13: At 4:30 p.m. on Melvin Avenue, Lakeview
April 22: 2015 at 7:40 a.m. on Woodfield Road and Janos Lane Lakeview
April 23: At 2:35 p.m. on Lakeview Avenue, Lynbrook
May 5: At 7:45 a.m. on Grove Street and Jamaica Avenue, Valley Stream
May 7: At 7:30 a.m. on Orlando and Champlain avenues, Lakeview
Residents are encouraged to call 911 immediately if they observe suspicious activity as described above.
The Nassau County Police Department would like to offer the following suggestions to possible victims:
If a stranger stops their car and asks the child questions, run the opposite direction and tell authorities.
Always walk in groups and stay close to the curb, away from shrubbery and doorways.
Do not take shortcuts through alleys, vacant lots or parks.
The Nassau County Police Department would like anyone with information regarding any of these incidents to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.