ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - A 31-year-old homeless man was charged with terroristic threats and aggravated assault after threatening people with a machete Sunday evening, Dec. 21, police said.

Dillion Richards was arrested following the incident that occurred around 5 p.m. near Clark Avenue, according to Albany Police.

Police said they believe Richards is homeless and has been living in a wooded area off Clark Avenue. When victims encountered him, he began threatening them with a machete, police said.

Albany Police Chief Michael Persley said the incident highlights the need for serious discussions with local government officials about addressing homelessness in the city.

“I mean, every community needs more resources. We don’t have enough resources to address our homeless population and our unhoused population. And on top of that, there’s always a mental health component. This is a high-level discussion that will [go to] our government officials, our community leaders. What are we going to do in the future?” Persley said.

Richards is currently in custody at the Dougherty County Jail. Police said they do not know how he obtained the machete.

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