Sex offender spotted on Model Elementary School property

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GOSHEN, Ind.-- "We have to protect our kids from these kind of people," said concerned Model Elementary School parent, Nazish Ikram. 

According to Goshen Police logs, on February 22nd, police were called onto Model Elementary School Property in reference to a suspicious person report from the day before. 

Parents weren't made aware of this specific incident until Friday, more than a week later. 

“They have to tell us everything right away so we can protect our kids from that," said Ikram. 

Turns out, schools aren't required to tell parents of any sex offender incidents. 

Friday, after talking with school officials, Model Elementary Principal released the following letter to parents saying: 

Dear parents and caregivers,

School safety and keeping our students safe is Model's #1 priority, as well as Goshen Community School's priority. 

We are writing to inform you of a situation that occurred at Model Elementary School. Due to the vigilance of our Model Staff, we became aware of a registered sex offender on school property. Administration took immediate steps with local law enforcement as soon as we became aware by the local law enforcement to help us maintain the safety of our children. 

At Model Elementary School, safety is our number one priority and we strive to ensure that we maintain a safe learning environment for each and every learner. 

Sincerely, 

Tami Hicks

Principal. 

One parent says they should've been formed the first time the offender was spotted lurking at the school.

The school says the can't release when the first time was. They only said it happened multiple times.

“Of course they have to tell. They have to give that education to the parents and to the kids so we can protect," said Ikram.

According to Indiana State law, a serious offender cannot live or hang around within 500 feet of community safety zones, and can't live within 1,000 feet of schools, child facilities or a victim. If they knowing step onto school property, that person can face up to two and a half years behind bars.

“I don’t know how they are allowed to come to the school. That’s not a good thing. We have to protect," said Ikram.

The investigation is currently active and has been handed over to the Elkhart County Prosecutor's office. 

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