UPDATE: 3:55 p.m.
RCMP have identified the elderly man who was witnesses offering candy to children at the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society’s Columbus Park property.
“Although the actions of the man were suspicious and concerning, after a thorough investigation, officers are confident the man doesn’t pose any threat of harm to any child. He was encouraged to no longer offer children candy”, explained Cst. James Grandy.
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ORIGINAL:
The South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society is warning parents about a potential child predator lurking in the area.
In a notice sent to residents, the society said staff spotted a man in the society’s Columbus Park property trying to lure children with candy at about 1:15 p.m. on Wednesday (Aug. 12).
The notice stated the man was reportedly trying to lure four children, under the age of eight, who were all residents of Columbus Park. The children were playing outside without supervision.
Staff said the man was wearing dark blue shorts, a light blue t-shirt, and glasses. He was wearing a black ball cap over his short white hair.
“He is not a person known to live here or as a guest here. He was cutting through the property,” the notice claimed.
Penticton RCMP have been contacted and are investigating.
The society is asking parents to ensure their children are under direct supervision.
“For their safety, please speak with them about ‘stranger danger’.”
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