South Fulton Police in Georgia intervened to address a situation involving squatters who taken residence in a vacant home since Christmas. The South Fulton Police Department arrived at the property on Caveat Court, which was believed to be unoccupied, with a significant presence. The authorities apprehended six individuals and recovered a stolen vehicle during the operation.
Situated in Hampton Oaks, the residence in question became the subject of attention from the homeowner association (HOA) leadership. Kendra Snorton, the vice president of the HOA, shared insights with the local station, noting that the group purportedly moved into the vacant dwelling on Christmas Day.
Mel Keyton, the president of the HOA, disclosed that members of the group allegedly committed a break-in at another property within the subdivision, pilfered a vehicle, and subsequently returned to the residence they had been occupying for an extended period. The discovery of the stolen car in the yard reportedly aided in connecting the dots for the authorities.
Expressing concerns over the safety implications, Keyton highlighted the frequent presence of squatters in the neighborhood, emphasizing instances of trespassing and property intrusion. Snorton echoed these sentiments, expressing discomfort over the uncertainty surrounding the identities of individuals residing among them.
South Fulton, situated approximately 20 miles southwest of Atlanta, has witnessed legislative action aimed at addressing such incidents. Governor Brian Kemp recently signed a bill criminalizing squatting in Georgia, providing property owners with recourse to pursue damages and expedite eviction proceedings.
Similar measures have been implemented in other states, with Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida enacting legislation to eliminate squatters’ rights earlier this year. The severity of the situation was underscored by accounts from real estate professionals. Kesha Chedeaux, a real estate agent, recounted incidents of squatters selling appliances and causing extensive destruction to properties.
Efforts to remove squatters from illegally occupied homes remain challenging and potentially hazardous, as individuals engaging in such activities often operate with impunity.
