In a statement to parents on May 17, Menifee Union School District Superintendent Jennifer Root informed parents that the Menifee Police Department advised the district that an unidentified adult Caucasian male approached a middle school student and asked the student to get into his vehicle this morning at approximately 8 a.m.
The suspect is approximately 30 to 40 years of age with a “scruffy” beard and an unkept appearance.
The vehicle was identified as a white two-door Toyota Tacoma truck with a silver/white shell, silver skid plate, and oversized off-road tires traveling along Craig Avenue near Paloma Valley High School.
According to the Menifee Police Department, the driver exited his truck, approached the juvenile, and told him he had a book and would read it to him if he got into his truck.
The 12-year-old student was able to get to safety with the help of a Paloma Valley High School campus supervisor, according to the statement. The Menifee Police Department is actively investigating the incident and increasing patrols throughout the week.
“We want to assure our parents that our school staff is aware of the incident and will continue to be vigilant with supervision practices,” said Root. “Teachers will provide a reminder of safety procedures with all children throughout the week. It would be beneficial if you could review the safety protocols with your family as well.”
The Menifee Police Department urges anyone with information regarding the person of interest or vehicle described to call 951-677-4964.
