LAYTON, Utah (ABC 4 News) – A door to door salesman was arrested by Layton Police after he allegedly sexually assaulted a woman in her home.
According to Sergeant Jeff Roderick, David Smith was part of a group of men selling magazines door to door to homes near 300 South and Fort Lane last Wednesday.
Roderick said investigative leads led them to Smith who had worked his way north to Logan. He was found at an undisclosed hotel.
Roderick said a 24-year-old woman opened her door to Smith. She refused to buy any magazines from him. Smith was persistent and asked for a glass of water.
Police said the woman returned with water and eventually offered to make a purchase. Smith allegedly went into the home and forced himself on her while she was grabbing her wallet from a bedroom.
Neighbors in the area were shocked when they heard about the alleged incident.
“I have three children at home and I’m a stay at home mom,” Trista Jackson said. “I would have answered the door for someone like that.”
Alicia Kelley, another neighbor, has talked to several salesmen the past couple of weeks. She said the men are persistent.
“Usually it takes about 20 minutes or so to get them to take no for an answer,” Kelley said.
Kelley and other neighbors said the alleged incident makes them think twice about believing they are safe in their own home.
“It just makes me a little more cautious about what I do and who I open the door for,” Kelley added.
Layton police have issued a warning to people to not open their doors for salesmen. They also advise to never allow salesmen into your home. Do not feel pressured to buy anything. If the salesman won’t leave your property, call police.
