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Tim Nelson

Abduction attempt a hoax, Cannon Falls police say

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Police in Cannon Falls now say that a report of an attempted abduction in a city park last weekend was a hoax.

"While conducting a subsequent interview the victim acknowledged that the incident had not occurred as reported and there was no abduction attempt," said a press release issued by the Police Department.

Police said the incident was initially reported as an assault, then later described as an attempted kidnapping of a 10-year-old girl. Police issued an alert about the incident on Tuesday. A man had allegedly grabbed the girl, then put her down to catch her breath — allowing her to escape.

Police said they take reports of such crimes very seriously, and urged parents to use the opportunity to discuss safety with their children. They also urged compassion for the 10-year-old girl who initially reported the incident.