Man Grabs Teen Girl Waiting For School Bus In Upper Merion: Police

UPPER MERION, PA — As the new school year got underway on Tuesday morning, police in Upper Merion arrested a man who they said grabbed a young teenage girl waiting at the school bus stop.

The incident occurred on 120 Jefferson Street near the Sacred Heart Church in the Swedesburg section at around 6:30 a.m.

The man walked up to the 14-year-old girl, a student at Upper Merion High School, and without saying anything, grabbed her arm, according to authorities.

The girl was able to free herself and run away, and called her mom to tell her what happened.

Upper Merion and Bridgeport police were able to use the description she and other witnesses provided to quickly track the suspect to the nearby intersection of Holstein and Coates streets, where he was arrested.

The suspect, whose name was not released by police, has only been identified as a 36-year-old man from Norristown. He was charged with misdemeanor disorderly conduct and harassment.

The man was unable to post $5,000 bail and was booked at Montgomery County Correctional Facility.

"We want to commend the quick thinking actions of this young student today," Upper Merion police shared. "She did a fantastic job in running and calling for help right away. Parents are also encouraged to share this incident with their children as a reminder to always be alert of their surroundings."

A preliminary hearing is forthcoming.

If you have any information or witnessed the incident, contact police at 610-265-3232or rsmull@umtownship.org.