Greenville Man Accused of Scamming Tenants

A Greenville County resident is facing 7 charges of obtaining goods under false pretenses after a Pickens County Sheriff's Office investigation.

Anthony Chetlergh Williams, of 107 Dixie Avenue, Greenville, was arrested Thursday.

Deputies allege that Williams portrayed himself as a representative of a local property owner “for the sole purpose of scamming tenants out of their rent money” for his own personal gain, according to a Pickens County Sheriff's Office release.

The 7 cases all occurred at a mobile home park on Avalon Drive in Easley, the release said.

One of the victims contacted the sheriff's office about the fraud scheme, which began in December 2012.

A Sheriff's Detective met with other victims and obtained evidence that indicated Williams had presented documents to the victims that lead them to believe they were signing legal lease agreements.

Williams collected a $300 security deposit from the victims, the release said.

The investigation confirmed that Williams was not a representative of the property owner and did not have permission to negotiate any lease or rental agreements with any one on behalf of the property owner, the release said.

Williams was released on Thursday after signing a $14,000 personal recognizance bond.

Several of the scam's victims are still residing at the mobile home park until arrangements can be made for them to either relocate or reach some kind of resolution with the property owner.

“It is an unfortunate situation for the families and the property owner that have been victimized by Mr. Williams,” said Sheriff Rick Clark. “I remain committed to my promise to the citizens of this county to use every resource at my disposal to bring justice to those who prey on our communities.”