MACON, Ga. — The Centerville Police Department is warning neighbors about a group of 100 people going door to door to selling magazines. Chief of Police Chuck Hadden says the group of young adults didn't have a permit to solicit in the city and says that could put homeowners at risk.
Shanika Kinchen has lived on Wray Street for about two years. She's cautious about answering the door to strangers. "I'm usually peeping out of the door or I'm looking out of the window. If I don't know who you are, I'm not opening my door," said Kinchen.
On Monday, some people did answer the door and took their concerns to the police department. "They were being belligerent when the person told them 'no,' that he didn't feel comfortable giving them anything," said Hadden.
A Centerville ordinance says, " Any person who wishes to solicit donations or contributions for, or sell any insignia or novelty on the streets of the city on behalf of, or under sponsorship of, any charitable, religion social, patriotic, or civic club or organization shall be required to register such solicitation or sale with with the city clerk and chief of police at least 48 hours in advance of such event and to obtain a permit therefore."
Hadden says he understand people are trying to make a living, but says the rules are there for a reason.
"It puts the people kind of in danger because you never really know what's on the other side of that door, as far as if you are a homeowner," said Hadden.
Kinchen says she doesn't see the harm in people selling products, but understands the possible threats. "People are getting robbed just answering their door," said Kinchen.
She says she wants people to take the proper steps to be able to go door-to-door asking for money. "If I see your permit, that makes me feel more safe in the neighborhood and I know my safety is not in jeopardy," said Kinchen.
Hadden says anyone caught soliciting without a permit could be arrested or cited, but says he hasn't seen it go that far. The application for a permit has to be in writing and include information like the name of the group requesting it, where the money will go, and the name and address of the organization sponsoring the solicitation or sale.