A Tacoma man was arrested on Friday, April 10, after police say he tried to lure an 11-year-old girl by telling her "come in the car" and attempting to pull her toward his vehicle near South 74th and G streets. The girl dropped her bike and ran back to her mother, who reported the encounter to police. Court records identify the suspect as 43-year-old Sophorm Phal, who was taken into custody and booked into the Pierce County Jail on an attempted luring charge.
How Police Say The Street Encounter Played Out
As reported by KING 5, court documents say a gray sedan slowed near the girl and the driver waved before asking, "Hi, do you want to come in the car" and telling her "don't run away." The girl's mother told officers the man allegedly reached for her daughter twice in an attempt to pull her into the vehicle. Police later stopped a car matching that description and arrested Phal. After his rights were read, he told officers he had waved only to let the girl ride past his car, according to the report.
What Luring Means Under Washington Law
Under state law, luring happens when someone attempts to entice a minor into a motor vehicle or secluded place without parental consent and with intent to harm or to facilitate a crime. The statute, RCW 9A.40.090, classifies luring as a class C felony. A class C felony is a felony-level charge that can lead to prison time if prosecutors secure a conviction.
Ongoing Investigation And Possible Additional Charges
As detailed by KING 5, officers sealed the vehicle after the arrest and planned to obtain a search warrant to check for a suspected firearm inside. Police booked Phal into the Pierce County Jail and noted in records that he is a convicted felon. Prosecutors will review the evidence and decide whether to file additional counts as investigators follow up.
Safety Reminders For Families
Parents are encouraged to remind children never to accept rides from strangers and to run to a trusted adult or public place if they are approached. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Tacoma Police or call 911 so investigators can follow up.
