Chatham-Kent police are appealing to the public for tips after a series of concerning incidents involving youths in the downtown core.
Between August 9 and August 22, five incidents have been reported to police involving a group of youths approaching lone individuals in downtown Chatham, escalating from harassment and threats to robbery.
Police said the accused are recording the events and some reports to police suggest there may have been others watching from the sidelines.
Those involved are being urged to speak with a parent or guardian and come forward to the police with any information they may have.
"The Chatham-Kent Police Service is committed to addressing these unprovoked and cowardly acts swiftly and effectively," read a statement. "We encourage anyone who has witnessed these incidents or has any knowledge about them to come forward and assist in identifying the individuals responsible."
If you have been a victim of a similar event and have not reported the incident to the police, call the non-emergency number 519-352-1234.
The following are the dates, approximate time frames and locations for the reported events:
August 9, 2023 - 12:50 a.m. -1:05 a.m. 99 King Street West, Chatham (DCC mall parking lot)
August 11, 2023 - 9:45 p.m. – 9:55 p.m. King Street at Fifth Street, Chatham
August 22, 2023
· 3:50 a.m. – 4:05 a.m. Third Street at Grand Avenue West (7-11 Parking lot), Chatham
· 4:00 a.m. – 4:10 a.m. Tecumseh Park, Chatham
· 4:10 a.m. - 4:30 a.m. King Street W at Fifth Street, Chatham
If you have video and or information on these matters, please contact the investigating officer, Detective/Constable Dan Carroll, at dancar@chatham-kent.ca or 519-436-6600, extension 280.
Alternatively, anyone with information can also submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
