Although some sex offenders are strangers and stalkers, many know to the victim as a family member, friend, or neighbor. They win a child s trust and then take advantage of that trust. Potential victims are likely to be children that are poor, neglected, loners, or runaways. Many pedophiles seek out mothers of single parent families for the purpose of victimizing children. Sex offenders like playgrounds and other places where children congregate.
Most sex offenders groom their victims prior to any crime.
Enticing with attention, affection, gifts, promises, and providing alcohol and pornography to lower inhibitions. Participating in activities with teens, often excluding other adults, or trying to get teens into situations where no other adults are present. They provide extra assistance and offer special attention. Operating businesses that hire teens and looking for excuses requiring them to stay after hours, or visit the offenders home. Seeking employment or volunteering where they will be in contact with children and teens.