Last week, we reported on a white van that allegedly approached a child. There were two other reported incidents in the County as well. This morning, the Anne Arundel County Police are reporting that they have tracked down the leads and identified the driver and that there was no criminal intent. From the AACOPD:
Detectives from the Western District conducted a follow-up investigation and developed information regarding the vehicle that was observed in the Sherwood Forest community. Further investigation led them to the operator of the vehicle. Detectives subsequently responded to the residence of the driver, made contact with the driver and determined that the operator of the vehicle was in the community conducting legitimate business. Additionally, detectives have not been able to substantiate that there was any criminal intent behind the driver’s actions that day.
Detectives from the Eastern District have conducted a follow-up investigation into the alleged incidents around Shipley’s Choice Elementary and have determined that only one juvenile was approached by a vehicle as the second juvenile only observed a similar vehicle in the area. No dialogue was exchanged and no criminal intent has been corroborated at this time. Detectives have been in contact with school representatives, who have not reported any suspicious activity in the area. Detectives from Eastern and Western District have confirmed that the incidents in each district are unrelated.
The Anne Arundel County Police Department takes reports of suspicious behavior/activity very seriously. As a safety reminder, parents should remind their children to never enter the vehicle of a stranger, travel in groups and immediately report suspicious activity to a trusted adult. It is encouraged that parents have an action plan in place with their children should a suspicious situation occur.
