February 22nd, 2021, at approximately 1:22 p.m. a neighbor called 911 after seeing a possible burglar going into a nearby home. As deputies were responding to the 4800 block of Oak Park Dr NE, in the unincorporated area of northeast Salem, the homeowner also called in saying they could see someone inside their home on their surveillance camera. The homeowner checked their cameras after being alerted by a neighbor about seeing someone who didn’t appear to belong.
The first deputies arrived at the scene within 3-4 minutes of the original 911 call. Once additional deputies arrived, they began loud hailing in front of the residence calling for the person inside to come out. Approximately 15 minutes later, a male came out of the residence and surrendered to deputies without incident.
The patrol supervisor at the scene, Sgt. Tom Crofts, complimented neighbors for their willingness to work together. “The home owners were fortunate to have neighbors who were alert and helping look out for one another. This was a great example of people paying attention to activity in their neighborhood and talking to each other when something doesn’t look right.”
The suspect, Richard Woods, 65, of Salem was taken to Marion County Jail where he was charged with Burglary in the First Degree and Theft in the Second Degree. Additionally, Woods had outstanding warrants for his arrest for a Failure to Appear in Salem Municipal Court and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle.