West Des Moines Parents Warned of Predator Claiming to Offer Film Internships

The West Des Moines school district is warning parents that their children may be targeted by a man claiming to represent a production company who is trying to lure them into Skype conversations.

The letter states:

"We want to make you aware of a situation that has been brought to our attention. The following correspondence was forwarded to us from a metro-area school:

"'Girls from several schools in our area have been contacted by someone [who] claims to be doing an internship with a production company, researching the community the girls live in, and asking them for assistance with the project. He mentions the possibility of meeting with a big-name actor, coming to visit and going out for dinner. He then asks if the girls have a Skype account so he can talk with them.

"'This is a scam and he is a predator. Do not correspond with him. If he sends you something try to print it out and bring it to your building principal. You may also contact your local law enforcement agency.'”

The letter from Elaine Miller-Watkins, the district's community relations director, continues:

"We have been informed by another area school that this man has attempted to make contact via Facebook with multiple girls in the Adel area. We are not currently aware of any West Des Moines student being contacted by this predator. Should we receive additional information, we will work with area law enforcement and contact parents in an effort to stop this predator.

"This serves as a reminder to all of us about the importance of online safety and making good decisions as to who we correspond with via Facebook. For resource information on internet safety, please visit www.bethere.iowa.gov/InternetSaf.html.

"Please contact a principal or your local law enforcement should you know of a student being contacted by this predator."