A routine Walmart run for a school project turned into a criminal case Sunday, after Boynton Beach police arrested a 26-year-old man who allegedly tried to lure two 13-year-old girls in the parking lot on the 3600 block of Federal Highway.
The teens told officers they were grabbing supplies when a man in a white work-style van pulled up near them, then later followed them into the store and down the aisles.
Officers identified the suspect as Mitchell Clark and said they had probable cause to book him on two felony counts of luring and enticing a child, according to CBS12. Investigators reviewed surveillance video that they say shows a white Ford Excursion pulling into a space near the girls, and later footage of a man trailing them through the cosmetics, electronics and crafts sections. The report says the teens ran to the front of the store and hid in bushes outside until a parent arrived.
Suspect's admission in court papers
When detectives interviewed Clark at his residence, the probable-cause affidavit says he admitted speaking to the girls and acknowledged they appeared to be "middle school age." He then told investigators he "made a mistake" and had "lost my mind and was horny," according to CBS12. Police wrote in the affidavit that Clark left the store without buying anything and waited in the fire lane as the girls came out.
Prior investigations flagged
The affidavit also notes Clark has been previously investigated in several unrelated incidents across Palm Beach County, including three separate allegations of lewd behavior in public in front of young girls. Investigators say those earlier inquiries are referenced in the court papers but are not tied to any new charges in this case.
What charges mean under Florida law
Under Florida Statutes Section 787.025, luring or enticing a child under 14 is treated as a felony. The law states that an adult who intentionally lures or attempts to lure a minor under 14 into or out of a structure or vehicle commits a third-degree felony, with harsher penalties possible for repeat or related convictions, according to Florida Statutes Section 787.025. The Florida Senate publishes the full statute text online.
Investigation remains active
Clark was booked into the Palm Beach County jail on the two felony counts, and prosecutors will now review the case and decide on formal charges. Boynton Beach police have asked anyone with additional video or information about the incident to contact detectives as the investigation continues.
