It happened in a place most people wouldn’t think twice about, a parking lot along Union Turnpike. But what police say unfolded there is the kind of moment that turns ordinary into something far more unsettling.
On the evening of March 18, around 7:30 p.m., a 15-year-old girl was approached by a man while she was in the parking lot at 1596 Union Turnpike in New Hyde Park. According to detectives, the man allegedly made a disturbing offer, trying to entice her to come to his vehicle with cash.
The girl refused.
And just like that, the moment passed, but not without leaving behind serious concern.
The man drove off in a tan 2006 Jeep Liberty, disappearing into the flow of traffic. But the encounter didn’t end there.
Investigators began piecing together what happened, working to identify the driver. That effort ultimately led them to Robert Chapman, 63, of Bellerose.
Authorities say he was located and taken into custody without incident following the investigation.
Chapman has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child. He is scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Hempstead.
Now, detectives are asking a bigger question, was this an isolated incident or something more?
Anyone who believes they may have had a similar encounter is urged to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.
As always, the charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Photo: NCPD.
