Parents warned: Berkeley man a potential threat, allegedly tried to feed children unknown liquid

BERKELEY (BCN)-- Berkeley police today issued a warning to families about a man who earlier this year allegedly tried to feed an unknown liquid to three young children at a playground.

William Turner, 36, of Berkeley, was arrested after allegedly trying to feed the liquid to children, including one as young one years old, on June 12 at a playground in the Ohlone Greenway near McGee and Hearst avenues, according to police.

Officers placed Turner on an emergency psychiatric hold and he was later arrested on suspicion of annoying or harassing a child and possession of stolen property, police said.

He later pleaded guilty to a lesser offense and was placed on probation with a stay-away order from all parks and schools in Alameda County, but was arrested again on Sept. 1 after being spotted near Berkeley High School and Berkeley City College, police said.

Turner has since been released from custody again and Berkeley police spokesman Sgt. Andrew Frankel said the department wanted to notify the public about him so parents can remain vigilant when visiting parks with
their children.