Police: Suspicious Person Incidents Don't Appear Related

Three reports in the past week of a man following female Plymouth-Canton high school students from their homes to their bus stop do not appear to be linked to recent reports of men exposing themselves to younger students, according to Plymouth Township Police.

The latest reports detail a man described as in his 40s or 50s near Ann Arbor Trail and Haggery Road following a group of female students from their homes to their bus stop at Gilbert and Morgan in Plymouth Township, according to a news release earlier today by Plymouth Township Police.

Police said the man, who traveled on foot, doesn't appear to be linked to a series of incidents reported last week including one in which a Central Middle School student said a man lured the student to his car at the school before exposing his genitalia.

"The information we've received right now, it doesn't appear to be related," Plymouth Township Detective Sgt. David Hayes said, as the man was following on foot, not parked in a vehicle.

Still, Hayes said, the township is sharing its investigation with Canton and City of Plymouth Police, as well as with Plymouth-Canton Community Schools.

Frank Ruggirello Jr., director of community relations for Plymouth-Canton schools, said the district is working closely with police.

Ruggirello said the district has made families aware of the situation, and said the district continues to cooperate with law enforcement.

"Police and the school district are working together constantly," he said. 

Ruggirello said parents should discuss with their students basic safety tips, including walking in groups, avoiding off-the-beaten-path routes and to be aware of their surroundings.

A message also was left Tuesday with Plymouth Township SRO Detective Bryan Rupard seeking comment.