Emily Chapman Laing
A man has been reported to police after he allegedly brandished a knife and spouted abuse to primary school students on 13 July.
Police received a report of a man possibly armed with a knife walking outside St Agatha’s Catholic Primary School in Cranbourne.
The man was reportedly swearing and yelling at students on Scott Street at around 2pm.
Paul Velten, Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale confirmed the incident.
“The school wrote to parents yesterday afternoon to alert them to the incident,“ he said.
“Child safety and the wellbeing of students and staff is fundamental to all schools within the Diocese of Sale in providing a safe and nurturing Catholic education.
“St Agatha’s Primary School has offered support to any student or staff should they require it.“
Police say the man did not enter the school at any time.
Police say they quickly arrived at the scene however the offender had left the area, and despite extensive patrols of the surrounds, he was unable to be located.
A similar incident was reported at Quarters Primary School in Cranbourne West on 12 July.
A Department of Education spokesperson said the Department was aware of “an incident in which students reported concerning behaviour by an individual in the vicinity of Quarters PS“.
“The school took all appropriate action, including providing extra staff supervision on yard duty, reporting the matter to police and providing full communication to parents and carers,“ they said.
No arrests have been made at this stage and the investigation remains ongoing.
A recent Facebook post regarding the incident has been created and includes an image of a man that has been nominated as the offender.
Police have identified the man pictured and he has been ruled out as having any involvement.
Anyone with information or vision is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or contact the Cranbourne Police Station directly, not to contact the school involved.
