Months-Long Occupation Ends in Arrests
Georgia law enforcement apprehended six individuals who had been illegally squatting in a $450,000 suburban home for several months. The break in the case came when a neighbor’s stolen car was traced back to the driveway of the occupied property.
Vacant Home Becomes Neighborhood Nuisance
According to local residents interviewed by WANF-TV News, the squatters took up residence at 4300 Caveat Court on Christmas Day 2023. Their presence quickly became a source of concern for the surrounding community.
Homeowner Association Sheds Light on Underlying Issue
Mel Keyton, president of the Hampton Oaks Homeowners Association, explained a pattern observed in the neighborhood. Investors purchase homes, potentially with the intention to rehab and resell, but ultimately leave them vacant. This, according to Keyton, creates opportunities for squatters to move in.
“They never buy them back,” Keyton said. “They leave the house vacant, squatters move in. We don’t know who these people are and what they’re doing.”
Escalating Crime Leads to Arrests
The situation took a turn for the worse when the squatters allegedly targeted another vacant property in the neighborhood. Keyton claims they broke into the neighboring home while the owners were away and stole their car.
Fortunately, law enforcement was able to locate the stolen vehicle, leading them back to the squatters’ hideout. On Saturday, police apprehended all six individuals involved.
Timely Legal Developments
The arrests come amidst a recent change in Georgia law. Governor Brian Kemp signed the Georgia Squatter Reform Act on April 24th, empowering homeowners with greater authority to evict unwanted occupants. This new legislation may prove instrumental in preventing similar situations in the future.
