A man who was identified as a known sex offender was arrested at Timothy Christian Schools, 188 W. Butterfield Road, after he was seen talking with grade school students Friday morning. He was taken into custody by Elmhurst police, and charges are pending.
Timothy Christian Grade School Principal Tim Hoeksema sent a letter to parents Friday afternoon.
"We are grateful that a potentially dangerous situation was dealt with quickly and professionally," Hoeksema said.
He said "a suspicious man" was spotted roaming along the east side of the schools.
"The man approached a few grade school students during recess and engaged them in a very inappropriate conversation," Hoeksema said. "He made no attempt to do anything other than talk with them."
He said four supervisors were on duty. A fence separates the school property from where the man was, he said.
"The Elmhurst Police acted swiftly and boldly, and they are to be commended for their action today," Hoeksema wrote. "Additionally, our staff and Timothy’s watchful neighbors also deserve a special acknowledgment. Keeping our children safe is a community effort.
"We will continue to work diligently to provide a safe and secure campus. The Elmhurst police remind parents that such incidents should be reported immediately, and that if their son or daughter has a cell phone with them in such circumstances, they should not hesitate to call 911 immediately."
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