School Districts Vigilant Following Kidnapping Attempts

Days into the new school year, school districts in the surrounding areas remain vigilant after incidents involving children,, has kept community members on edge.

Following two kidnapping attempts of young girls in Azusa, e near .

School districts, including Glendora Unified and Charter Oak Unified, sent e-mails and phone call alerts to parents informing them of the incidents.

On Wednesday morning, Glendora Police were called to another incident near Two students were frightened when they believed a man was following them with his vehicle.

However, Michelle Hunter, assistant superintendent of educational services at Glendora Unified, said a report was not filed.

“We’re not sure if the children overreacted,” said Hunter. “A man got out of the vehicle, but there was not any contact with the kids and he did not pursue them.

“We don’t want to create a situation where kids begin to overreact.”

During the first few weeks of school, Glendora Police typically step up traffic patrols near schools to increase student safety, however, the recent events have also heightened police efforts, said Hunter.

“We just want parents to be informed as much as possible and for students to watch their surroundings,” said Hunter. “In this technological age, kids my have earphones in their ears and may not be too aware of what’s going on. We tell them to pay attention to their surroundings and to walk in groups.”