A Ludlow man found himself behind bars after being accused of attempting to lure two young girls into his car outside a Walgreens, police statements and court records revealed. Michael Wilson, aged 35, faced a judge in Palmer District Court following his arrest on Saturday, ending up on the hook for felony enticement of a child under 16, along with a misdemeanor for disorderly conduct.
According to Boston 25 News, the alarming incident unfolded in the afternoon of December 6, when Wilson reportedly set his sights on the girls as they emerged from the Walgreens at 54 East Street. A gray Toyota Camry, belonging to Wilson, was discovered by police parked on the wrong side, creating a hazard by blocking the travel lane on 65 East Street.
Upon responding to the scene, enforcement officials found two women, the girls' mothers, engaged with the man from the sidewalk, as reported by WCVB. Having noticed Wilson allegedly watching them, the girls ran from him after he approached and attempted to coax them into his vehicle, successfully locating their parents nearby.
In a statement obtained by The Boston Globe, Police Chief Daniel Valadas commended the "efforts and professionalism of the police officers, dispatchers, and the shift sergeant for their quick response to a frantic 911 call." The on-scene investigation that swiftly ensued following the arrest led to the pressing of very serious charges against Wilson.
Held initially on a $15,040 cash bail, Wilson pleaded not guilty and was strangely released on personal recognizance. Details surrounding his next scheduled court appearance were not immediately available.
