In Glendale, Arizona, a man has been arrested for allegedly trying to abduct a fifth grade student as she was on her way to school on Friday morning.
According to Glendale law enforcement, the event took place in the vicinity of 43rd and Peoria avenues.
According to officials at Sunset Elementary School, as a student was walking to school, a car stopped near the girl and a man exited the vehicle, making an aggressive move towards her.
The young girl fled and eventually caught up with a group of three students who were on their way to school.
The school officials were notified of the incident and contacted the police.
According to authorities, they managed to acquire video evidence and successfully track down the car believed to be involved in the incident.
Police arrested Joseph Ruiz, 37, who they believe was the man who attempted to grab the girl as she was walking to school. Police have reported that Ruiz has a violent criminal history. He’s now facing kidnapping and custodial interference felony charges.
Court documents detail that Ruiz was previously convicted of aggravated assault, a class 3 dangerous felony, after having stabbed his mother in the neck.
The school administrators shared safety advice for both students and parents:
Tips for Students:
- Remain vigilant and careful
- Avoid using cell phones and stay mindful of your environment.
- Travel with a group to and from school, do not travel alone.
- Refrain from conversing with unfamiliar individuals.
- Do not engage with strangers.
- Never accompany a stranger, regardless of the reason they may provide.
Advice for Parents:
- Always be aware of your child’s whereabouts and who they are with.
- Establish clear protocols for picking up your child from school or a friend’s house. Do not allow your child to accept rides from anyone without prior arrangements, even if they claim to be a police officer, neighbor, teacher, or family friend.
- Keep your child’s school office updated with any changes to your contact information or emergency contacts.
- Ensure that your child knows how to reach you at all times.
- Teach your child a secret word or phrase to use in case of emergency.
- Educate your child that it is acceptable to flee or scream if they feel uncomfortable or if someone is behaving inappropriately towards them.
No matter the age of your child, authorities are urging parents to review safety tips. If your child is approached by a stranger, you are asked to report the incident to the police immediately.
