Child-touching creeps strike again in Union County, police say

FANWOOD — Police in this Union County borough are investigating a bizarre incident in which two men approached and touched young children at a playground.

The incident — reported 4:25 p.m. on Nov. 21, at Forest Road Park — is the latest in recent months involving strangers approaching or attempting to lure children in Union County.

At least a half dozen such incidents were reported across the county in September and October.

Last month, a 27-year-old Marine recruiter was arrested and charged with sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child after allegedly fondling himself in view of three children on a street in Roselle.

More recently in Fanwood, police said two men, one in in a gray hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans, approached the children playing on a jungle gym.

The man in the hoodie poked the foot of one of the children hanging from the bars and said “Tag — you’re it.”

Police said the man continued to poke the child’s foot while saying “you want more!”

Police were called after the children ran away, but officers could not find either of the men in the area.

Anyone with information is asked to call Fanwood police at 908-322-5000.

Sergio Bichao is deputy digital editor at New Jersey 101.5. Send him news tips: Call 609-438-1015 or email sergio.bichao@townsquaremedia.com.