Police Increase Patrols After Suspicious Man Photographs Children

Caption: Composite sketch of man who was reportedly seen photographing some children in Downers Grove, IL.

Downers Grove police have stepped up patrols near schools and parks after a suspicious man was reportedly seen taking pictures of children playing outside.

Two young girls were playing in a front yard near the intersection of 35th Street and Highland Avenue around 4:50 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4. Police said the driver of a minivan stopped and snapped pictures of the girls with his cell phone.

There was no contact made between the girls and the driver, and it was unknown what the driver’s intentions were.

The driver is described as a male white in his 20s or 30s, driving an older model, white Toyota minivan with black rims and black luggage carrier. A composite sketch has been released.

Police remind parents to review stranger danger practices with their children. Children should also be instructed to run to a familiar house or to school and get help immediately if approached by a stranger. The police should be called as soon as possible.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is asked to contact Downers Grove Police at 630-434-5600.