Residents warned about Answering Doors to Strangers

The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to use caution when answering their doors to strangers after a man was charged in a February incident. “We received a report of an incident where an individual came to a citizen’s home and items were taken,” says Oconee County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Jimmy Watt. “While residents of Oconee County have always been hospitable and have always lent a helping hand to stranger and neighbor alike, we are providing citizens with some information on danger signs to look for and how to protect themselves and their property.” A deputy with the Uniformed Patrol Division was contacted by phone by a person who resides at an address on Dr. John’s Road near Westminster who told the deputy that someone broke into the residence and stole some items back in the middle of February. The individual in question, later identified as a result of the investigation to be 27-year-old Justin Matthew Richey, came to the residence to inquire about a lawn mower for sale as well as items that were located elsewhere on the property. While continuing their discussion, the homeowner let Richey into the residence concerning a TV that the homeowner wanted to get rid of. While inside the residence, the homeowner agreed to let Richey use the restroom facilities. Richey later gave the homeowner a false name and telephone number. After arriving back at the residence later on after leaving, the homeowner noticed a window that had been tampered with and later discovered items missing in the home. Richey stands charged with first degree burglary and grand larceny in the case. Richey is accused in warrants of entering the home and stealing a handgun and antique jewelry. Richey resides at a residence on North Pond Street in Toccoa, Georgia, according to warrants. “We recommend that if a stranger knocks on your door and you are not comfortable with answering the door, and then don’t go to the door at all,” says Watt. “If you do decide to go the door, peak out of the window to see who it is and also don’t open the door all the way. Answer through the screen door or leave the chain to the door attached. In addition, if someone asks to come in, as a homeowner, you have the right not to say no. This is especially important to remember if multiple people are asking to come in. If someone says they need help, tell them you will call 911 or law enforcement authorities for them. Finally, if you have an item for sale that is placed alongside the road, don’t offer those items for sale unless you know that more than one person is going to be at the home at that time.”