The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department has its hands full after a rash of break-ins in the county.

Jefferson County Sheriff Fred Abdalla is offering a $500 reward, plus 100 gallons of free gasoline, for any information leading to the arrest of those responsible for terrorizing home owners.

Abdalla said in recent weeks that five homes have been broken into in the New Somerset area and an additional four or five homes along County Road 53, one happening Monday night.

Sheriff Abdalla said if anyone feels threatened by anyone who comes near their home without permission, no matter what time of the day, they have legal rights under Ohio law.

“If somebody enters your home and you feel like your life is threatened or in danger, you have the right to shoot that person, every right,” said Abdalla.

If you have any information, please contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department.

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