Sheriff’s office says it has 100 tips on Naples Park attempted abductions

Something as simple as walking down the street has changed for a community in North Naples. It’s in response to a man investigators are searching for. He reportedly grabbed a woman and tried to engage four others recently.

The man remains unknown after five attempted abductions in Naples Park, but we’ve been sharing a law enforcement sketch based on the man’s description.

Naples Park community members met Thursday to discuss ways to keep their neighbors safe Thursday.

Collier County Sheriff’s Office says 100 tips have come in, and they are looking into every single one. Investigators told homeowners they have few very strong leads they are looking into but would not elaborate.

Posters are still up here in the neighborhood, as walkers and joggers take all safety precautions when they are out.

“That’s why I’m here. I’m her bodyguard,” Steve Bloom said.

“Yes, he is because I usually walk by myself, but it’s kinda scary,” Jodi Martin said.

Martin is taking the advice of the sheriff’s office to stay safe.

“We live on 97th, like 5 doors down,” Martin said. “It’s just like way too close to home. It’s scary.”

Sgt. Darlon Higdon is the lead investigator of the case.

“We understand that this is a significant concern to the community,” Higdon said.

Higdon confirmed there are many leads for investigators to work with now.

“Some of those leads are better than others,” he explained.

While they try to find a man reportedly trying to lure women in Naples Park, CCSO encourages encourage everyone be alert.

“The old phrase the hair on the back stand up, same type of concept,” CCSO Sgt. Brian Sawyer said. “If you see or hear something that is unusual, take note of it.”

Deputies say running and walking with a partner or telling someone you are leaving before you go out is very helpful.

“When it starts to get darker, I go to my house as soon as possible because I feel afraid,” Carmen Sanchez said.

Neighbors are already thinking about a neighborhood watch program.

“I hope they catch the person that’s behind all of this. People shouldn’t have to be afraid here,” Ron Tryon said.