Police investigate after reports of suspicious man near Derbyshire school

A woman contacted police at around 5pm on Sunday, June 12 about a man who she believed had been acting suspiciously and had allegedly approached children with the offer to sell them a puppy near to The Co-operative store on Hartington Road.

Officers have spoken to the man in question and want to reassure residents that there are no concerns about his intentions.

As well as contacting the police, the woman posted photographs of the man’s car on Facebook, which was shared by others.

The man and his family, who live locally, then contacted the police as they are distressed about the post.

Two women who have posted details on Facebook, including the one who made the initial report, have been spoken to by police, and have since agreed to remove them.

Officers are concerned that it is still being shared by others as the family have been unable to have the post removed completely through Facebook.

Inspector Greg Hunt, who is in charge of policing for the Dronfield and North East Derbyshire area, said: “The woman was right to contact police if she felt the man had been acting suspiciously; officers have made enquiries and spoken to the man in question. We do not believe that there are any concerns around this man, his intentions or the safety of youngsters in the area.

“The post about the incident which is circulating on Facebook is causing considerable distress for the man and his family. Please do not share this post. If you have any concerns about anything suspicious then contact the police.”

Insp Hunt added: “I would like to take this opportunity to remind people to exercise caution with what they share on Facebook, and of their responsibilities to keep comments on social media within the law.”