Luring Reports a Priority for Police, School Officials

Wayne Police are being kept up to date regarding the reported luring instances that have occurred in Bergen and Passaic Counties since mid-September.

“All officers are advised of the information available regarding the alleged luring incidents,” said Capt. James Clarke. Clarke did not comment further.

At least 15 attempted luring incidents have been reported in Bergen County since mid-September, NorthJersey.com reported on Tuesday. The website reported that a luring incident had also occurred in Passaic County, in Hawthorne.

The discovery of the body Autumn Pasquale, a 12-year-old from Gloucester County who was allegedly strangled by two teenagers, has caused authorities in two Bergen County municipalities to announce an 8 p.m. curfew for children 18 and younger on Oct. 30 and Halloween night., the website reported.

Wayne school officials are working with police to ensure student safety.

A notice regarding the incidents has been issued on the Wayne Public School District’s website.

“The school district continues to work closely with the police department to ensure that our children are safe while they are in our care,” the notice states. “However, as Halloween approaches, please take the time to speak to your children about staying safe when walking to and from school, never talking to strangers under any circumstances, and always reporting something suspicious to school authorities and the police department right away.”

The notice contains a link to articles by Scholastic and the National Crime Prevention Council about how and when to talk to children about the dangers of speaking to strangers.

Residents should report any suspicious activity to the police department immediately by calling 973-694-0600.

— Have a question or news tip? Contact editor Daniel Hubbard at Daniel.Hubbard@patch.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter. For news straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.