Full Notification

The Turlock Police Department received multiple reports of a suspicious man that approached residences in Turlock requesting parents provide fingerprints, hair samples, and/or DNA from their children.

The Turlock Police Department diligently investigated these incidents and were able to identify and speak with witnesses and the involved adult male. He has fully cooperated with the investigation and agreed to come to the police department for an interview. We were able to confirm that he represents a legitimate business; however, the manner in which the information was relayed led to some misunderstanding and concern among the residents that he contacted.

His contacts stemmed from word of mouth referrals and from online requests for free child DNA kits. The involved adult male was passing out child DNA kits, which would be retained by the family, in the event it was ever needed for future investigations. He was not asking to retain the child DNA kits himself.

As a result of this investigation, we were able to determine there were no crimes. Residents should continue to exercise caution when unknown individuals come their residence. Do not allow people you are unfamiliar with into your homes. Contact police immediately if you suspect any suspicious activity.

If anyone has any additional information regarding this investigation, please contact the Turlock Police Department at (209) 668-1200. To remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636, as you may be eligible for a cash reward. You can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 ext. 6780 or email at [email protected], if you wish to remain anonymous.

The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.

To receive more detailed, up-to-date information directly from the Turlock Police Department via e-mail, register for "Nixle" alerts at www.Nixle.com or more directly at https://local.nixle.com/register/, or, text your zip code to 888-777 to receive text alerts for emergency alerts only.

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This information is being released by Turlock Police Department Sergeant Michael Parmley.

Any media requests should contact:
Sergeant Michael Parmley
Office of Professional Standards
Turlock Police Department
Office phone - (209) 664-7345
Email – [email protected]