The Child Abduction Awareness Program is a unique way to test a child's general awareness of strangers.  The program, currently under the direction of Police Officer William Diedtrich, has been met with success since its inception in September 2002.  With the help of DSG. Francaviglia, DSG. Farrell, P.O. Angermeyer, P.O. Zimmerman, and other officers, the team of cops dressed as ordinary people tries to lure a child in an effort to simulate an actual abduction.  The program teaches young children how NOT to become a victim of an attack or an abduction.  By seeing first-hand the ways strangers can be clever and friendly, children will learn that attacks and abductions don't always happen the way that they are portrayed on television.   

Given the recent headlines about kidnapping, it is important for children to understand certain key concepts for avoiding strangers.  Originally implemented by DSG. Francaviglia and now moderated by Officer Diedtrich, this program is suited for children as old as 8 or 9, but is especially useful for younger children who are still learning to spot a stranger and/or suspicious people.  

For more information and to schedule an appointment for a simulated abduction, please call Officer William Diedtrich at 201-664-4200 x5206 or contact him via e-mail wdiedtrich@hillsdalepolice.com  

The Abduction Awareness program was recently featured in local newspapers, click on Abduction Program a Success to read excerpts from the article.