Recent attempted child abductions raise awareness

In the past two months, there have been several incidents of suspicious activity related to possible attempted abductions in Reno, Sparks, Carson City and South Lake Tahoe, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.

The majority of incidents have occurred while the children or teens were walking to or from school, according to a release from DCSO. Suspects have engaged the youths in conversation and tried to get the youths to leave with them on foot or in a vehicle.

No children have gone with the subjects.

Suspect descriptions have ranged from young male Caucasians, to middle-aged Hispanic males, and, in one incident, a middle-aged Caucasian female, according to DCSO.

Vehicle descriptions have included a large white van, a dark-colored SUV, a white Chevy pickup truck with black rims, and a Lexus car.

Reno Police have arrested three suspects and Sparks Police have arrested one suspect whom they believe responsible for some of the incidents. Their investigations are still ongoing.

There have been no related incidents reported in Douglas County. However, in an effort to educate parents and children on actions to increase personal safety, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office offers the following tips.

Safety information for

children/teens:

• Always let parents know where you are going, who you will be with and what time you will arrive home.

• Try to avoid walking alone - use the "buddy system."

• If someone pulls up near you in a car, and asks you to come over so they can talk to you, do not approach the car. Tell them to go talk to an adult. Remember, adults should never ask children for help; they should always ask another adult.

• Trust your instincts - recognize and report suspicious behavior. Go somewhere safe if you feel fearful of someone.