Shaker Heights Police Bust Teenagers for Offering Children Candy and Car Rides

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH - Police caught three teenagers offering children candy and a ride in their car with candy on Oct. 14. The teenagers told officers they never intended to harm the children and they were merely being immature.

Witnesses reported seeing people attempting to lure children into their car on Oct. 14. When officers caught the teenagers, they told police they were "remorseful" for the concern they had caused within the community. The trio also admitted to the immaturity of their actions.

The department has said in a statement that the decision to pursue any charges will be made by the prosecutor's office.

The police department said, in a statement, that, "The information provided by our resident witnesses, Schools and community at large; as well as your support in educating our children on not interacting with strangers proved invaluable in our collective efforts to address this matter without incident."

Police have used this incident as a way to remind parents about the importance of teaching children to be wary of strangers, particularly with the holidays approaching. The department has asked parents to take a look at Kid Smartz, a website with tips on how to keep children safe from potential predators.

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