Police: Man tried to lure Montco girl into car

FRANCONIA TWP, Pa. - December 13, 2011 (WPVI) -- A Montgomery County community is on edge after police say a man tried to lure a 12-year-old girl to pose for pictures.

Police say the male suspect followed the young girl after she got off her school bus.

He drove up next to her and asked to take her picture.

The victim took off running for home, and the suspect fled in his vehicle.

"It's very rare. We don't know if this is random or some pattern but we would rather be cautious that it could happen again," said Chief Joseph Kozeniewski.

Police notified the Souderton School District, which triggered regular parental alerts to neighboring areas including Franconia, Telford and Harleysville.

Many residents in the quiet suburb say they rarely experience anything like this.

"I think it's horrible. These poor kids can't live a normal life and get off their school bus without worrying about someone taking them," said Lynn Manns.

Others say they aren't surprised that the opportunity exists.

"It makes access easier if its remote and no one around. There are not many cars driving by," said Barbara Simpson.

Police are hoping that nothing like this occurs again.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Franconia Township Police Department at 215-723-6777.

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pennsylvania, montgomery county, child luring, children, local/state, vernon odom

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