Here's a copy of an email that came to my wife early yesterday --  this is right outside of the elementary school

 

 

The Middlesex Police Department is investigating an attempted robbery that occurred this morning (April 1, 2014) at approximately 8:45am.  The victim, a 75 year old female, reported that she was walking home after escorting her grandchildren to Watchung Elementary School when she was approached by a male subject while on Howard Avenue at Woodland Avenue.  The subject was described as being a black male, in his late twenties or early thirties, approximately 5’10’’ tall with a muscular build, having long hair in dreadlocks and some facial hair.  He was wearing sunglasses, a red colored, hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans with holes in them and “dirty” sneakers.  The subject reportedly took the female victim by the arm as she walked on Howard Avenue, signaling to her to remain quiet.  The subject escorted the victim to Giles Avenue near Fisher Avenue, rifling through her pockets as they walked. Having found that the victim’s pockets contained nothing of value, he attempted, unsuccessfully, to remove her earrings from her ears then fled the area on foot.

Anyone with any information regarding this incident is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Daniel O’Connor at (732) 356-1900, extension 223.

Residents are reminded to remain alert and aware of their surroundings at all times and to report any suspicious activity or suspicious persons to the police.

Should you have any questions or require clarification regarding the information provided, please contact Sgt. Frank DeNick at (732) 356-1900 extension 230.

Good thing he didn't use a gun, because schools are Gun Free Zones, and he would have been in big trouble.