Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office
A Port Charlotte man was arrested after allegedly attempting to lure two children into his vehicle.
At approximately 3:30pm on Friday, May 5, two children were walking home from school in the area of Sunnybrook Rd. and Broadpoint Dr. when a black pickup truck approached them. The occupants of the truck allegedly offered the children video games and candy if they would get inside the vehicle. The children ran away and told their parents, who contacted the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies observed a black GMC Sierra pickup truck matching the description provided by the children parked at a residence on Marine Terr. Deputies knocked at the door and were greeted by a man who they identified as Joseph P. Cirner (10/20/2003). When asked where the owner of the vehicle, Leighton L. Daigle (1/15/2002), was, Cirner was uncooperative at first until finally stating that Daigle was in the shower. Daigle eventually came outside to meet with the deputies.
When asked if he had spoken with any children while driving his truck today, Daigle turned and looked directly as Cirner for a long period of time without saying anything. Daigle noted that he had been in his truck with Cirner and was driving in the area during that time, but claimed they had not spoken to any children.
Each child gave a similar account of what had happened. One of the children was able to positively identify Cirner as the suspect that had attempted to lure them.
We take the safety of our children very seriously. I applaud these two individuals for doing the right thing, and it is a testament to their parents that they knew what to do. Let it be known to any who think they can prey on our children that you won’t get away with it here in Charlotte County.
SHERIFF BILL PRUMMELL
Joseph Patrick Cirner was placed under arrest and faces two charges of Luring a Child Under 12 by Person 18 or Older. He is currently out on bond in the amount of $10,000.