Garden Grove Parents Discuss Local Molester

Armed with information made available by Megan’s Law, about 50 residents around Sylvan Street gathered Tuesday evening to discuss the presence of convicted child molester Norman Douglas Parker in their neighborhood.

“The bottom line is that all of us care,” said Kelley Rose, a 32-year-old mother of three who hosted the meeting on her front lawn. “All of us are outraged. We have two schools within walking distance.”

Residents passed out fliers with Parker’s picture and information about his vehicles. They said they would photocopy thousands more if necessary.

Neighbors exchanged phone numbers and vowed to call each other if children neared Parker’s house on the 12000 block of Sylvan. But the residents said they don’t plan to use witch hunt tactics such as picketing.

“The bottom line is you’re responsible for your own child,” said Pat Atherton, 50, who lives on Sylvan. “You can train a dog to stay out of the street; you can teach a child to avoid someone.”

Parker, 40, has lived in the neighborhood on and off for a few years, neighbors said.

“My kids can never have any of their friends over, and my children can no longer go outside by themselves,” said Traci Sodal, 31, who lives next door to Parker.

One neighbor said Parker never bothers anyone.

“He comes home from work, watches television and goes to bed,” the neighbor said. “He’s always been a gentleman. That’ all I can say for him.”

Parker said he does not understand what the fuss is about. When notified of the neighborhood meeting, he said, “I don’t think it’s necessary. I know what I’ve done wrong, I’ve followed the procedures like I am supposed to. I mind my own business.”