Man charged with attempted child stealing and stalking in Coburg

Fawkner Sexual Offence and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives have charged a man following two alleged incidents in Coburg last week.

It is alleged a 41-year-old man followed a woman and child into a pharmacy on Louisa Street about 8.20pm on Monday, 6 October.

He allegedly left at the same time and continued following them to their car, which was parked in a nearby carpark.

As the woman and child were getting into the vehicle, the man allegedly opened the door and got into the rear passenger seat.

The child got out of the car and ran away, before the man allegedly followed her.

The woman intervened while the child sought safety inside the pharmacy.

The man allegedly remained outside the pharmacy for a short period before walking away on foot.

A short time later, the man allegedly climbed a fence and entered church grounds on Victoria Street.

It is alleged he approached a child and asked them to leave with him.

Adults were alerted and the man attempted to flee the scene, before being detained until police arrived.

The Coburg man was arrested and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

He was later interviewed by detectives and charged with several offences including stalking (x2), attempted child stealing (x2) and grooming for sexual conduct with a child under the age of 16.

He was remanded to next appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on 22 October.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Kathryn Muffett

Media Unit

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