Crime & Safety

Man 'Behaving Suspiciously' With Kids Near OC Elementary School Arrested, Police Say

The incident happened near Newland Elementary School in Huntington Beach, police said.

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA — A man was arrested after he was accused of "suspicious behavior" involving children near Newland Elementary School in Huntington Beach, police said.

The incident happened on Tuesday at around 7:30 p.m., when officers responded to reports of the man driving through a neighborhood near the school and engaging with children, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.

Based on information received from the community and witness interviews, the suspect was arrested, police said.

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He was identified as Irvine resident Ivan Mendoza, 21, and was arrested for felony child endangerment.

Anyone with information about Mendoza was urged to contact 714-536-5961.

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To remain anonymous, residents can contact OC Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS.

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