12-year-old allegedly coerced into van, sexually assaulted in Pines, Ind.

PINES, Ind. (WLS) -- A 12-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted after being coerced into a van while walking along U.S. Highway 12 in Pines, Ind., police said.

The girl was walking along the road around 7 p.m. on June 13 from the Blackhawk Motel to Virks Mart when the van allegedly pulled up to her and she was coerced inside, officials said. The suspect driving the van then allegedly drove to Pines Park on Birch Street and parked the van, fondled the female, and then returned her back to Virks Mart, police said.

Police said the suspect is an African American male between 5-foot-8 and 5-foot-10, around 35-40 years-old with prescription glasses. The van is tan with a brown colored stripe on the side with possible handicap blue plates, police said.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call police.