Parents, if your children walk to and from school, be aware of a suspicious man following students from Santana High School.
Two separate incidents were reported to a Santee Sheriff's Station School Resource Deputy on Friday, September 25th.
The first incident happened on September 21st and another on September 24th.
The teen girls told deputies a man driving a pickup followed them as they were walking on Mast Boulevard and Magnolia Avenue around 3:00 p.m. The girls went home and told their parents.
They describe the man as being in his late 20s, possibly Hispanic or Indian, with a dark complexion. They also say the man was clean-shaven and wearing a flat-brimmed baseball hat and a dark colored t-shirt.
The vehicle the man is driving is described as a white 2000 Chevy pickup truck with a toolbox in the bed.
Santee Sheriff's Station Detectives are investigating the cases. As a precaution, the Santee Sheriff's Station is increasing patrols with deputies and senior volunteers around the school.
If you see something, say something. Tell your teacher or approach our school resource deputy at any time. You can also remain anonymous by calling the Crime Stoppers Student Speaking Out Hotline. Call (888) 580-8477.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when walking to and from school:
• Stay in a group. Always walk with at least one friend, more is better.
• Say no to electronic gadgets. Parents remind your children that listening to music, talking on the phones, playing a video game or watching videos on their phones or tablets is a no-no. It's important for kids to be always aware of their surroundings.
• Stick to the route you picked with your parents. Don't let friends talk you into shortcuts.
• If a stranger offers you a ride, say "NO!" and run away from the car.
• Never hitchhike or take rides from people not arranged by your parents.
• If a stranger follows you in a car, turn around and go the other direction.
• If a stranger follows you on foot, get away as quickly as you can. Run to other people for help. Make a lot of noise.
• If a stranger asks you a question, run away. Remember, strangers should be asking adults for help, not kids.
• Tell a teacher, school staff, parent if a stranger is hanging around a school, playground or the restroom.
• If you arrive home alone, call your parent to let them know you are arrived safely. Keep the door locked and don't open the door for strangers.
• Parents, be careful about using your child's name on a back pack or clothing. Kids can sometimes believe a person is not a stranger if they know them by name.
