Crime & Safety
Man Tries to Lure Child To Car with Candy, Cops Say
James Pepper was arrested and charged with child abuse after trying to lure a 9-year-old out of Sims Park.
A 37-year-old man remained behind bars Tuesday after being accused of grabbing a 9-year-old-boy in Sims Park and asking if he wanted candy and to go to his car.
The boy’s mother told a New Port Richey police officer that the man, New Port Richey resident James Pepper, was sitting on a bench Sept. 2 when her son rode by on a bicycle.
As the 9-year-old passed, Pepper reached out and grabbed the bike and the boy’s right arm. He asked if his “mommy” was around and if he wanted to go to his car for some candy.
The mother rushed over and took the child away, and the boy then told her what Pepper said.
Pepper, of 5742 Pine St., New Port Richey was arrested Sept. 2 and charged with child abuse. He remained in the Land O' Lakes jail Sept. 3 in lieu of $5,000 bail.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
