01642 326326 - Non-emergency 24hr
- Cleveland Police (UK) - Putting People First
- News Centre
- Appeals
- False Allegation by Child in Loftus
02/07/2010 Redcar and Cleveland
False Allegation by Child in Loftus
On the evening of Wednesday 30th June a child reported to police that a man, described as of African appearance, had attempted to grab him at knifepoint and place him in the rear of a van.
The alleged incident was said to have taken place shortly after 6pm in the vicinity of the Loftus Leisure Centre.
Following a Police investigation, the child admitted to fabricating the whole story and confirmed that no such man had approached him.
Police are aware that there has been widespread discussion about this incident on Social Networking Sites such as Facebook, which has resulted in raised concern about the safety of children in the area.
Police would like to reassure the community that this incident simply did not happen and that the Loftus area remains a safe environment.
Neighbourhood Officers are visiting local schools and speaking with children regarding this.