Christchurch police have arrested a man after reports of students being followed in the St Albans and Merivale areas.
Police began investigating after concerns were raised on August 4. Detective Constable Andrea McDowell said officers checked CCTV and other information to identify the person. Letters were sent to 11 schools in the area, which resulted in further reports of students being approached.
A 53-year-old man is due to appear in the Christchurch District Court today on charges of breaching release conditions. Detective Constable McDowell said the arrest was an important reminder for parents to teach children how to protect themselves when walking to and from school, and how to be mindful of their surroundings.
Schools in the area had already been taking steps to protect students. A spokesperson for Selwyn House School confirmed it was contacted by police on August 22 about an unidentified older man observed riding a bicycle. Police told the school the man had reportedly approached young women in the area. The school reminded students to travel in groups and informed families of the issue.
St Margaret’s College sent a similar notice to parents after being contacted by police.
