Valley Mills Man Accused of Following Waco Student

Police say the 15-year-old student reported being approached and offered money to get in the man's car.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:54am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a car key fob against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the physical evidence at the center of a police investigation into an incident involving a student near a school.A car key fob is the focus of a police investigation into a reported incident of a student being approached and offered money near a Waco high school.Waco Today

Waco Independent School District Police have arrested a 45-year-old Valley Mills man after a 15-year-old Waco High School student reported he followed her into a nearby store during school hours on April 7 and offered her money to get in his car.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about student safety and the need for heightened security measures around schools to protect students, especially during school hours when they may be more vulnerable.

The details

According to police, the student reported that the man, identified as James Wilkins, followed her into a store near the high school campus and offered her money to get into his vehicle. The student refused and immediately reported the incident to school authorities, who then contacted the police.

  • The incident occurred on April 7, 2026 during school hours.
  • Wilkins was arrested by Waco ISD Police on Monday, April 14, 2026.

The players

James Wilkins

A 45-year-old man from Valley Mills, Texas who was arrested by Waco ISD Police for allegedly following a 15-year-old student and offering her money to get in his car.

Waco High School

The high school attended by the 15-year-old student who reported the incident to school authorities.

Waco ISD Police

The police department that arrested James Wilkins in response to the student's report of being followed and approached.

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What they’re saying

“We take any reports of inappropriate behavior towards our students extremely seriously and will continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of all Waco ISD students.”

— Dr. Susan Kincaid, Superintendent, Waco Independent School District

What’s next

Wilkins is currently in custody and the case will be presented to the McLennan County District Attorney's Office for potential charges.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive security measures to protect students, especially during the school day when they may be more vulnerable to predatory behavior. School districts must continue working closely with law enforcement to swiftly address any threats to student safety.