The Koblenz police warn against false reports about “child advocates” and pedophiles who are allegedly traveling in the Mayen-Koblenz district. These reports were not true.
For example, since the beginning of the week, it has been repeatedly spread in groups on WhatsApp or Facebook that “children’s advocates” are in Kruft, Mülheim-Kärlich, Weißenthurm or Plaidt, the police said. According to reports, suspected people are said to have been near schools and daycare centers.
No evidence of criminal or suspicious behavior
The police checked all reports. According to the Koblenz police headquarters, they all turned out to be false. The investigation revealed no evidence of criminal or suspicious behavior.
In this context, the authority makes it clear that it expressly welcomes vigilant citizens, especially when it comes to children. However, the first point of contact for information of this kind is generally the police. You have a duty to investigate and follow up on every tip. In this way, crimes could be prevented.
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Police warn against spreading unverified messages
However, the police also warn against launching or forwarding unchecked and possibly false messages via social networks. “These reports are often subject to the ‘silent post principle’, which means that the descriptions vary over time or are presented in an increasingly drastic manner.” This could result in a digital hunt based on false information.
According to police, publishing such information may be a criminal offense, particularly if it can identify or falsely suspect people. Publishing photos without the express consent of the person depicted could also result in a penalty.
