Investigation into Report of 13-Year-Old Girl Grabbed on Arm by Stranger

Updated December 19, 2019:

Over the last two days, Officers have prioritized resources and thoroughly investigated a reported incident in which a 13-year-old girl was allegedly grabbed on the arm by an unknown suspect in the area of Windsor and Palermo Street while walking home on Monday evening. The investigation included speaking with residents and businesses in the area, seeking and reviewing video surveillance, and interviewing the alleged victim and her family. After not finding any witnesses or evidence associated with the reported incident, the alleged victim admitted to making up the story and that the attempted abduction did not occur.

Officers are following up with the school and local service providers to ensure the girl and her family receive any support that may be necessary. 

Cambridge Police Investigating Report of a 13-Year-Old Girl Grabbed on Arm by Stranger
in Wellington-Harrington Neighborhood

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., December 17, 2019 – The Cambridge Police Department is investigating a report that a 13-year-old girl was grabbed on the arm last night around 6 p.m. by an unknown man in the area of Windsor Street and Palermo Street. The girl was able to escape from the suspect, without injury, as she was walking home from the Frisoli Center.

The suspect was described as a middle-aged white man, who had a gray beard, dark colored jacket with a hood, and approximately 5’7”.

At this time, the Cambridge Police are looking for any witnesses or video surveillance from residents or businesses in the Wellington-Harrington neighborhood that may have noticed anything suspicious during or around the time of the reported incident. 

Extra patrols and a non-uniformed presence has been deployed to Wellington-Harrington neighborhood and the Department is working closely with the family, youth center and school department.

Anyone with any information related to this ongoing investigation is asked to call the Cambridge Police at 617-349-3300. Those who wish to provide information anonymously may dial the Cambridge Police Anonymous Crime Tip Hotline at 617-349-3359 and leave a message.  Anonymous tips may also be sent via the Cambridge Police MyPD mobile app or via text message to 847411. Begin your text with TIP650 and then type your message.  To send anonymous tips via email, visit www.CambridgePolice.org/Tips.  

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