Deputies say man grabbed teen on walk from school

Osceola County sheriff’s deputies say a "suspicious" man grabbed a 16-year-old boy who walking home from school last Friday.

“Started conversation with him, grabbed him by the arm, saying, 'I’m gonna walk you home, so you don’t walk alone.' His actions are very concerning. We don’t know the intent,” said Capt. Jacob Ruiz of the Osceola Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies say the teen felt something was wrong.

“Sharp enough to say, 'I need to get away from this person,' and got away and went to the closest business.”

That’s when investigators said the teen snapped a picture of the suspicious man.

It happened in the area of  Bill Beck Blvd and Fortune Road.  Deputies said the man may be charged, once they identify him.

“He put his hands on the child.  That, in itself, is a charge of battery,” Capt. Ruiz explained.  “We don’t know the intent, and it’s very suspicious.  That’s why it’s important to identify him.”

The man is described to be around 45 years old, between 5 feet 7 inches to 5 feet, 9 inches tall. If you know him call the Osceola Sheriff’s Office 407-348-2222.