A Texas man operating as part of a South American group targeting Asian and Indian business owners is facing charges relating to two burglaries in Fayette County.
Sheriff Barry Babb said the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office on July 19 charged Jhon Villamizar Perea, 32, of Dallas, Texas, with two counts of felony burglary.
“These charges stem from burglary incidents targeting the homes of Asian/Indian business owners residing in Fayette County,” said Babb. “Jhon Villamizar Perea is part of a South American theft group that commits these specific crimes all over the Southeast.”
Noting one of the burglaries, Babb said deputies on Jan. 14 at 7:44 p.m. responded to the 100 block of Sabre Lane off South Jeff Davis Drive in reference to a burglary call. The resident said she arrived home from work and noticed forced entry into the residence. The suspect(s) took precious jewelry and cash.
Pertaining to the second burglary, Babb said deputies on Jan. 14 at 8:44 p.m. responded to the 100 block of Grandchester Way off Seay Road in south Fayette in reference to a burglary call. The resident said she arrived home and noticed forced entry into the residence, and electronics missing.
Deputies on scene noticed similarities to the previous burglary and notified investigators, Babb said.
“Evidence from the Fayette County burglaries along with evidence and investigation from several other law enforcement agencies led to Jhon Villamizar Perea being charged,” Babb said.
Babb gave special thanks to the Gwinnett County Police Department, Cobb County Police Department, Fayetteville Police Department and the Peachtree City Police Department.
Jhon F. Villamizar Perea is currently being held in the Gwinnett County Jail.
Many of these crimes go unreported because immigrants from Asian countries are not accustomed to the idea of law enforcement serving citizens (as opposed to maintaining order on behalf of the State), and fear they will be victimized a second time. A few years ago, Peachtree City made a concerted effort to reach out to the Asian community here and make them feel comfortable working with law enforcement to put a stop to these crimes. But it looks like we may be having a second wave as crime rates go up. Be vigilant my friends – as guests and newly minted Americans, you have the right to not have to live in fear.