Crawford County Sheriff warns about minivan following children

The Crawford County Sheriff's Office is alerting Southeast Kansas parents, guardians and children of a suspicious vehicle that has been seen in the area of at least two Crawford County cities and schools.

Callers have indicated that a silver Dodge minivan with California license plates has been following students walking near the areas of Haderlein Elementary in Girard and McCune Elementary in McCune, according to a statement from the Crawford County Sheriff's Office. It is also believed that the occupant of the vehicle has been photographing children in public. The subject has likely been active in neighboring communities as well.

The suspicious vehicle is described as an early 1990's Dodge Caravan, silver in color with much of the paint showing signs of oxidation. The vehicle has license plates from California as well as a luggage rack on top and no hub caps. The driver of the vehicle is described as a white male in his mid 50's with salt and pepper hair along with a beard and a mustache.

Both Girard Police officers and Crawford County Sheriff's deputies have made contact with this individual and interviewed him regarding the suspicions. While no crime had occurred, officials still have concerns about the motives behind these incidents.

The Sheriff's Office reminds parents to remain vigilant when it comes to the safety of their children. It is important to review safety rules that parent have set up with their children, especially those rules about dealing with strangers. Be on the lookout for any suspicious activity and report it to your local law enforcement agency.