Police search for man who accosted boy

The Santa Cruz Police Department is asking for the public’s help to identify a suspect wanted in connection to a child luring case. The suspect attempted to lure a 12-year old boy into his car. The incident happened on Wednesday, February 3, at approximately 4:00 p.m. on the upper west side of Santa Cruz.
When the suspect tried to lure the juvenile victim into his car, the boy was riding his skateboard near his home. The boy noticed a car driving back and forth on the street. The suspect then parked near the 12-year old boy and asked if he wanted to get in. The boy said “No.” The driver then drove a few feet closer to the boy and attempted to lure the boy into his car.
The boy ran off and notified his parents, who in turn called the police. The suspect was described as a Hispanic male, 5’6″, in his mid-30s with yellowish teeth who was wearing a short-sleeved gray shirt. The suspect spoke in English with a heavy Spanish accent. The suspect fled the area driving a light gold compact sedan with faded paint. An image of the suspect vehicle was captured from a nearby residence’s security camera.
Residents are urged to be on the lookout for this vehicle and to call 911 if they see any suspicious activity. Parents are encouraged to caution their kids to be aware of their surroundings and to simply run if approached by a stranger. Anyone with information relative to the suspect’s identity is encouraged to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit (831) 420-5820.