A 24-year-old man was arrested after allegedly attempting to lure a minor near Banning High School on Friday afternoon.

The incident was first reported around 1:45 p.m. Police responded to Central Elementary School at 295 N. San Gorgonio Avenue after a minor reported being followed
and harassed by an unknown man.

Officers made contact with the minor, who said she was on her way home from Banning High School when an unknown man began to follow her across San Gorgonio Avenue and the railroad tracks.

According to police, the man attempted to lure the minor into a nearby alley, but she managed to run to Central Elementary School and contact a staff member who called police.

Officers managed to locate a man matching the suspect’s description and arrested him.

The suspect, a Yucaipa resident, is accused of molesting or sexually assaulting a child and was booked into the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility.

“Banning Police recommend that students walk to and from school in groups and remain vigilant by not using electronic devices while walking. Banning Police will have additional officers on school routes to ensure the safety of children. We will continue to work closely with Banning Unified School District to ensure student safety. We ask that anyone who notices suspicious activity call 911.”

– Prohibition by the police authority.