WOODTV.com

GRPS: ‘Suspicious individual’ arrested after approaching student

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — A person was arrested after approaching a Grand Rapids Public Schools student who was waiting for a bus, police and the district confirmed.

GRPS Chief of Staff & Executive Director of Public Safety & Security Larry Johnson wrote a letter to parents, calling the incident “deeply concerning.”

“While waiting for the bus, a scholar was approached by a suspicious individual. Thankfully, the scholar is safe and the Grand Rapids Police Department has a suspect in custody,” Johnson wrote.

GRPD confirmed that it happened in the area of Ball Avenue and Bradford Street on Grand Rapids’ northeast side. It’s not clear how old the student is.

Grand Rapids police and the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office are working to file charges against the individual, who was not identified.

The district said it is working with police as they investigate. Johnson reminded parents to prioritize safety.

“We encourage families to discuss safety practices with their children, such as staying alert, traveling in groups when possible, and reporting any suspicious activity immediately,” he wrote.

Johnson also recommended safety tips like leaving porch lights on in the morning hours.