200 Shelby Street • Kingsport, TN 37660

ThomasMPatton • 423-229-9433 (Desk) • 423-224-2786 (FAX)

http://Police.KingsportTN.gov • www.KingsportPDBlog.com

15-027145

15-027150

15-027168

On December 14, 2015 at approximately 3:00 PM, an individual purporting to be “Earl Ritchie” went to a residence on Celtic Court in Kingsport. He entered an open garage and knocked on an interior door of the home, asking the homeowner if he had any odd jobs that he could do for money. The homeowner declined the offer; however, after the individual left, two chainsaws were discovered to be missing. “Earl Ritchie” has since been positively identified as actually being Allen G. Begley.

On December 15, 2015 at approximately 5:00 PM, Mr. Begley went to a residence on Freeman Drive, asking for money or work, and again claiming to be “Earl Ritchie.” He was allowed into the residence by the homeowner. While inside, he managed to take a garage door opener allowing him access to a detached garage. After he left, several power tools were found to have been stolen from the garage.

K.P.D. has also received complaints from two residents on Carters Valley Road where Mr. Begley came to their homes, begging for money and asking for work, and claiming to be “Earl Ritchie.” Detectives have also received reports that Mr. Begley may be trying to sell some of the stolen items for profit.

K.P.D. has received further complaints from patrons of Lowe’s on East Stone Drive involving the same individual soliciting money. Mr. Begley has been traveling in a late 1990s black Honda in the company of a female.

Detectives have obtained a felony warrant, charging Mr. Begley with Burglary and Theft over $500. Two photographs of Mr. Begley have been included in this release. While he looks distinctly different in the two photos, they are indeed of the same individual. Anyone who knows where he can be located is asked to contact Detectives in the K.P.D. Criminal Investigations Division at 423-229-9429 or call Kingsport Central Dispatch at 423-246-9111.

Alternatively, if an individual who is able to supply information related to this or any other case wishes not to be identified, tips can be submitted anonymously via online “Citizen Feedback” forms available at the following link:

http://police.KingsportTN.gov/Citizen_Feedback

Citizens are urged to always use caution when approached at home or in public by strangers soliciting money or work. Their story may appear believable on its surface; however, their intentions may turn out to be more sinister in nature.

26 Years of Age

Weight

175 pounds

Eyes

Brown Eyes

Kingsport, TN

He also has ties to Church Hill, TN.

2) Theft over $500

Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit