Published: August 22, 2008 10:03 pm            

Citizen of the Week: Karen Griggs

When Karen Griggs began her shift as a waitress at the Connector 3 Waffle House last Saturday, she couldn’t know what was ahead.

A man came into the restaurant around 9 p.m. with two youngsters in tow. Both of the girls, ages 6 and 4, sported lip gloss and miniskirts, causing Griggs to become suspicious. Alarm bells really started going off when the man disappeared into the restroom with the oldest for 15 minutes. After placing their order, he headed back to the restroom, this time with the 4-year-old.

Still, it could have been a grandparent innocently taking his granddaughters to the restroom, right? Maybe. But Griggs decided she needed to find out to be sure, so she started making conversation with the group and asking questions.

The girls told Griggs they were on a camping trip. Something wasn’t adding up, prompting Griggs to investigate further by stepping outside to the parking lot and looking inside the man’s car. There were no signs of camping equipment. Griggs called 911.

Detectives questioned the two children, resulting in the man being arrested and charged with aggravated child molestation.

Lt. Nancy Chadwick with the Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office is thankful Griggs listened to her instincts.

“Karen’s actions reflect that she is willing to stand for what is right and do the right thing,” said Chadwick. “Citizens like Karen are the foundation that builds a strong community.”

For refusing to look the other way and for her willingness to get involved, The Daily Citizen names Karen Griggs Citizen of the Week.

        

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