On Friday, March 17, 2017, a concerned citizen called 911 to report an individual watching pornographic material and exposing his genitals in the parking lot of the Target located in the Canton Market Place Shopping Center off Ga. Hwy 20 near I-575. Before responding Officers arrived, the male fled the scene in a newer model red Mini Cooper. However, the caller was able to provide a very good description of the suspect before he left the area. At that time, Officers began an investigation into the incident, searched for the individual and through evidence / statements collected secured warrants for the suspect's arrest.
During the early evening of Thursday, March 23, 2017, Officers again responded to the same location as before in reference to a subject in a red Mini Cooper watching lewd videos and exposing himself in-front of the caller, another adult and a child. The suspect again fled before Officers arrived. Responding Officers collected additional evidence, statements and secured further arrest warrants for the same male that committed this act on March 17, 2017. With further leads on his whereabouts, the Cobb Police Department located the suspect in their jurisdiction this morning and took him into custody where he was transported to the Cherokee Sheriff's Office Adult Detention Center.
Arrested:
Jeffrey Mark Lanford age: 40 of Roswell, Ga.
Charges:
Public Indecency two (2) counts
Child Molestation one (1) count
Police Detectives are asking if there is anyone who knows of additional incidents involving this suspect to please contact the department at 770-720-4883.
Chief Mark J. Mitchell stated, "We are grateful for these citizens who were very aware of their surroundings, got involved and provided extremely vital information that led to the arrest of this individual before any additional crimes occurred. This is what happens when law enforcement and citizens work together in an effort to improve the quality of life for our community."
