Georgia authorities are actively searching for a man who allegedly trespassed onto a private residence, used a hot tub, and stole towels after becoming infatuated with a rubber duck, according to Chatham County Police Department records.
Police confirm suspect’s actions caught on surveillance video between 2:15 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. on September 1. The suspect was recorded entering the property in the 9000 block of Whitefield Avenue, where he was seen swimming in the pool before moving to the hot tub. While in the hot tub, the man spent more than 10 minutes intensely interacting with a rubber duck, police stated.
After leaving the hot tub, the suspect departed on a bicycle while taking six luxury beach towels valued at $200 each, totaling $1,200. Authorities have not disclosed the specific nature of the suspect’s interactions with the rubber duck beyond describing it as "intense." A grainy, black-and-white still from the footage shows the man holding the duck near his face, though the exact details remain unclear.
Chatham County Police emphasize the incident is under investigation. The department has requested public assistance in identifying the suspect to prevent potential repeat incidents. No further details about the suspect’s identity or motives have been released at this time.
Official Statements and Investigation Details
Chatham County Police Department officials characterized the incident as unusual but noted it remains a matter of public safety. In a statement, police described the suspect’s behavior as follows:
- Trespassing onto private property between 2:15 a.m. and 5:30 a.m.
- Using the homeowner’s hot tub and pool without permission.
- Becoming infatuated with a rubber duck found at the residence, spending over 10 minutes in the hot tub with the toy.
- Stealing six luxury towels valued at $200 each before fleeing on a bicycle.
Police have not provided additional context regarding the suspect’s mental state or whether any criminal charges beyond trespassing and theft are being considered. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.
Surveillance Footage and Public Appeal
The Chatham County Police Department released a portion of the surveillance footage, which shows the suspect entering the property, using the pool and hot tub, and interacting with the rubber duck. The footage does not provide clear details of the suspect’s actions with the duck but confirms his presence and movements throughout the property.
Authorities have not specified whether the suspect has any prior criminal record or connection to the homeowner. The public appeal for information suggests the department is treating the case as a priority to prevent potential escalation or similar incidents elsewhere.
Background on Property and Incident Location
The incident occurred at a private residence in the 9000 block of Whitefield Avenue. While police have not released further details about the homeowner or the property, the location is within Chatham County, Georgia. The timing of the incident—occurring in the early morning hours—has raised questions about the suspect’s intent, though no official conclusions have been drawn.
The Chatham County Police Department has not indicated whether additional charges may be filed pending further investigation. The case remains open, and authorities continue to review surveillance footage and gather evidence.