Hernando Sheriff seeks info on man seen near Explorer K-8

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office is asking parents and students in Spring Hill to stay alert after a report of a suspicious male near Explorer K-8 School. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, October 27, when a 14-year-old student encountered a man near a construction site on Portillo Road.

The student was walking to school between 7:15 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. when she noticed a man standing beside a dark-colored, four-door pickup truck. The vehicle may have been blue and appeared to carry electrical equipment in the bed. The student stated that the man seemed to be performing an indecent act.

As the student crossed the road to avoid the man, he smiled at her. He then drove away in the pickup truck and circled the area before disappearing from her view. The suspect has not been identified yet. Witnesses describe him as possibly wearing tan or khaki pants.

Deputies canvassed the area immediately after the report. Detectives are now following up on the incident. The Sheriff’s Office has placed additional patrols in the area during school commute hours to increase visibility.

Officials encourage parents to speak with their children about personal safety. Students are reminded to report any behavior that makes them uncomfortable to a trusted adult or law enforcement. Anyone who sees suspicious activity should contact police.

The Sheriff’s Office asks anyone who recognizes the individual or the vehicle to come forward. You can submit a tip to Hernando County Crime Stoppers and remain anonymous. Callers can reach Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-866-990-TIPS or by texting TIPS from a cellphone. You may also submit a tip online at www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com.

Tips submitted through the Crime Stoppers program may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000.