NEDERLAND, Texas — A Nederland father and police urge parents to talk with their kids about being safe this summer after his daughter was able to flee from a man who aggressively grabbed and started kissing her.
With the end of the school year, many children will be visiting parks and pools to enjoy summer break. This increased outdoor activity brings more responsibilities for children and parents.
12News was able to speak with James Pruitt, a concerned father from Nederland who stresses the importance of safety talks with children.
"We have to give a honest open conversation on how the world really is," said Pruitt.
Pruitt previously talked with his daughter about predators. His child takes a trip to the park several times a week.
"Very loud and let someone know if a stranger tries to talk to her, or any place, anywhere, I'll be there to help her, to protect her, I'll do everything I can," he said.
Pruitt says he never thought his daughter would have to put his words of warning into action.
Pruitt's 10-year-old daughter faced a terrifying encounter when she was walking back home from Doornbos Heritage Park on March 29.
"When she came in contact with a man where he complemented her nails, and then he aggressively grabbed her and start kissing her," he said.
Thankfully, his daughter was not alone. Her friend's loud screams scared the suspected predator off.
"She was able to pull off eventually and run [be]cause my daughter's friend was screaming really loud," he said. "And when she started screaming loud, that's when he started to let go."
Pruitt's wife pulled up during that moment and attempted to chase the suspected predator.
"If my daughter's friend wasn't there, I don't know what would've happened."
Nederland Police Chief Gary Porter stresses the importance of parents teaching their children about predators. He advises parents to teach their kids to trust their instincts and stay away from "creepy" or suspicious people.
"It starts out really young. Having a good conversation without scaring them to death to go outside," said Chief Porter. "But they just need to be aware that if that little feeling comes across their mind that this is creepy, then it is creepy, and to stay away."
Cell phone safety is also important due to the amount of predators online.
"Because there is a ton of criminals, perverts, pedophiles, crooks that are on cell phones just waiting to take advantage of a young kid that they can find on a cell phone," said Chief Porter.
Chief Porter says that his department is investigating the case.
Pruitt and Chief Porter both say it takes a village to keep kids safe.
"All parents, we need to be proactive, watch each others children's backs," said Pruitt.
Chief Porter urges parents to give their kids general safety rules about talking to strangers and not to let strangers approach them.
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This is a developing story. We will update with more if and when we receive more confirmed information.