GOOSE CREEK, S.C.–Authorities with the Goose Creek Police Department say they are looking for Earl Johnson Jr., a Goose Creek man wanted for burglary.
Police say he is renting out foreclosed houses that he has no legal rights to.
“Johnson Jr. is fraudulently collecting rent from tenants in those homes. In the Goose Creek area, Johnson Jr. has been using the company name of Eagle’s Nest Foundation Trust to fraudulently rent out homes,” stated Captain John Grainger with the Goose Creek Police Department.
According to the Goose Creek Police Department, an officer recently met with a couple who claim that Johnson showed them houses in the Goose Creek area that could be “rented to own.”
The couple reportedly decided to settle into a home located on Mary Scott Drive in Boulder Bluff. Police say the couple entered into a written contract with Johnson and gave him and his business partner $1,050 in cash.
The couple also told police that they also bought items to fix the house that came to approximately another $1,000.
On August 8th, the couple reportedly sent Johnson another check for $900. Shortly after, they reportedly learned that Johnson did not have permission to lease the property.
The couple then put a stop on the check and contacted authorities.
“If you live in the Goose Creek area and are currently renting from Johnson, please contact the Goose Creek Police Department at (843) 863-5200,” stated Grainger. “If you are out of the area please contact your local jurisdiction.”
