Man kisses, tries to abduct girl, 12, at Corio

A silver-haired man has tried to abduct a 12-year-old girl after kissing her at Corio, according to Victoria Police.
He pounced as the girl walked her dog easterly on Purnell Rd about 1.30pm Monday, police alleged.
Geelong Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives appealed for witnesses after releasing a computer-generated image of the suspect.
Police said the girl told investigators she first noticed the man walking toward her near the intersection of Cheshire St.
“The victim moved out of the man’s way. However, he stopped next to her and patted her dog before placing his hand on her shoulder and kissing her on the cheek.
“While still holding onto the victim the man tried to make her walk with him, saying, ‘Come with me’.
“The victim struggled free from her assailant and ran to a nearby school where she sought assistance from a staff member.”
Police said the man was perceived to be aged between 50 and 70 years old, with tanned skin, short white hair, unshaven and a heavy European accent.
Police urged anyone with information to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.