Appeal after boy approached by suspicious man in Stevens Park

Dear Resident

We wanted to share this appeal for information after a seven-year-old boy was approached by a suspicious man in Stevens Park. 

The boy was playing in the park at around 5.55pm on 19 June, when he was approached by someone thought to be in their late teens or early 20s.

The boy was asked if he wanted to ride the man’s bike and when the child said no the offender threatened him. The boy wasn’t physically harmed and later reported the incident.

Officers completed a full area search and reviewed CCTV footage as part of our ongoing investigation.

We have supported the boy and his family to get a full account of what happened and obtain a description of the suspect. 

The suspect is described as being mixed race with dark brown afro style hair. He was wearing a T-shirt and shorts and riding a dark blue bike.

This follows an incident where a four-year-old boy was abducted at Haden Hill Park in Cradley Heath.

The incident took place last Thursday shortly before 3.45pm at the park off Halesowen Road.

A four-year-old boy, who was playing near the fish pond, went missing for a short period and was found in woodland close by.

The offender was described as being in his late teens, black, short in height and with curled hair. He has been described as clean shaven and wearing black clothing.

We’re potentially linking the two incidents but we are keeping an open mind.  

We understand how concerning incidents of this nature can be and we’re working tirelessly on the investigation and to establish the exact circumstances.

We’re currently studying CCTV at both locations. We are also appealing for witnesses to come forward and we’re particularly keen to hear from people who may have been at the two park locations at the time and may have any mobile footage to please contact us.

Anyone with information is being urged to ring us on 101 quoting log number 4707-190626 or 3966-180626.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

You can also submit mobile phone or dash cam footage here  Public Portal

We have extra officers at both locations and if you do have any information which can assist us please speak to them.