Shoppers at a Dollar General on Hiram‑Douglasville Highway in Paulding County got an unwelcome shock on April 11, when a man walked into the store shortly before 6 p.m. and, according to deputies, exposed himself to customers while performing a sexual act. Deputies say the man approached people as they were shopping, and investigators have now released surveillance photos in hopes the public can help put a name to the face.
Similar Incidents In West Georgia Dollar Generals
Law enforcement in the region has been dealing with more than a one-off incident. Local outlets report that investigators in West Georgia have been tracking a pattern of indecent‑exposure cases at Dollar General locations over the past year. FOX 5 Atlanta and WSB‑TV reported last spring that deputies across multiple counties were comparing surveillance footage and collecting tips from clerks and shoppers to piece together leads.
Deputies Turn To Facebook, With A Wink
The Paulding County Sheriff’s Office posted surveillance stills from the April 11 incident on Facebook and, as The Georgia Sun recounts, opened its public notice with "Y’all… 🫣" and closed with "He ain't getting off that easy." The post asks anyone who recognizes the man to call 770‑443‑3027 or send in tips through the department’s free mobile app.
How Tips Are Handled
Investigators say they will follow up on credible leads. Paulding County's staff directory lists the sheriff's main line as (770) 443‑3010 and provides direct numbers for investigative units, and residents can check the county directory for specific contact details.
What The Law Says
Under Georgia law, a "lewd exposure of the sexual organs" in a public place can be charged as public indecency under OCGA § 16‑6‑8. First and second offenses are misdemeanors, while a third or subsequent conviction may be charged as a felony, according to Georgia Public Safety Training Center materials. The Georgia Public Safety Training Center summarizes how the statute is applied.
Deputies are asking anyone with video, information, or even a hunch about the suspect’s identity to contact investigators. In emergencies, they emphasize that people should call 911, and they urge store staff and shoppers who feel unsafe to alert employees and law enforcement right away.
