News

Portland police say parents won’t press charges after student grabbed while walking to school

Portland police say parents won’t press charges after student grabbed while walking to school

Photo: clipart.com


No charges are expected after an eighth-grade student at King Middle School in Portland was grabbed by the wrist by an unknown person while walking to school on Thursday.

The principal says a teacher was also walking in the area along Park Avenue when the incident happened and immediately called police.

After investigating, police said the incident was not nefarious and the parents have chosen not to pursue charges.

Police took the opportunity to remind students to be cautious and aware of their surroundings while walking to and from school.

They shared the following tips to help keep kids safe:

Say Something – If you see or experience anything that makes you uncomfortable, please reach out to your principal or a school administrator so they can take appropriate action.

Use sidewalks and crosswalks – Always walk on the sidewalk. If there isn’t one, walk facing traffic. Cross only at crosswalks or intersections.

Look both ways – Stop and look left, right, and left again before crossing the street. Keep looking while crossing.

Make eye contact with drivers – Never assume a driver sees you. Wait until vehicles stop before stepping into the road.

Put devices away – No texting, headphones, or games while walking near traffic. Stay alert.

Walk with a buddy – Younger children should walk with an adult or responsible older child whenever possible.

Use well-lit routes – Stick to familiar, well-traveled paths. Avoid shortcuts through alleys, parking lots, or wooded areas.

Obey traffic signals and crossing guards – Follow their instructions carefully.

Be visible – Wear bright clothing or reflective gear, especially on cloudy mornings or in the evening.

Latest Headlines

13 hours ago in Local

Potentially Deadly Virus in Dogs Reportedly Spiking in Parts of Maine

Parvovirus is also referred to as parvo, and typically affects puppies and unvaccinated dogs.

13 hours ago in Local

Sen Collins Behind Bill to Cap Monthly Insulin Costs at $35

Collins says it would directly address the root problems in the insulin market that are driving high list prices.

17 hours ago in Local

Skowhegan town manager who died last week was being investigated for sexual exploitation

The town manager in Skowhegan was under investigation for sexual exploitation before his death.

17 hours ago in Local

New Aldi to open in Portland on Thursday

The first Aldi's location in Maine is opening in Portland Thursday morning.

23 hours ago in Sports, Trending

March Madness: Here’s one thing you need to know about each of the 16 teams remaining in men’s field

Florida isn't around to defend its title anymore, but all the other top seeds in this year's NCAA Tournament are still around. And many of them are winning convincingly.