A woman accused of walking into a stranger’s apartment before wandering through an apartment complex and trying to enter other residences was arrested after deputies found her appearing confused and unable to explain what she was doing.
Deputies responded to an apartment complex in Chesapeake after receiving reports of a suspicious person.
When officers arrived, bystanders pointed them toward a woman who had walked between the apartment buildings. Deputies spotted her near another apartment, where she appeared to be attempting to get inside.
According to the report, Destiny Pruitt appeared dazed and confused and was unable to identify herself or explain why she was there. Deputies detained her while they investigated.
A nearby resident told deputies she had unlocked her front door while waiting for her father to pick her up.
Moments later, she heard another door open. When she walked into her living room, she found Pruitt standing inside her apartment.
The resident said she told Pruitt to leave. According to the report, Pruitt simply smiled, turned around, and walked back outside without saying anything.
EMS personnel responded to evaluate Pruitt because of her behavior. According to the report, she refused to speak with emergency medical personnel during the evaluation.
Pruitt was arrested and transported to the Lawrence County Jail on charges of Criminal Trespass and Disorderly Conduct.
An Unlocked Door Is an Open Invitation
While many unlawful entries involve someone looking to steal property, others involve individuals suffering from a mental health crisis, intoxication, or another medical issue.
Law enforcement recommends keeping doors locked even when you’re home, especially if you’re expecting a visitor. If an unknown person enters your home, move to a safe location if possible and call 911 immediately rather than attempting to physically remove them yourself.
Although this incident ended without anyone being injured, deputies say it serves as a reminder that something as simple as an unlocked door can quickly lead to a frightening encounter
