A Georgia woman, Loletha Hale, found herself behind bars after attempting to move back into her own property, which had been occupied by an alleged squatter. The case highlights growing concerns over squatting disputes in Georgia and raises questions about property rights and legal enforcement.
The Incident
Hale was arrested on December 9 outside her late mother’s home in Livingston, Georgia. She had arrived to clean and prepare the property after a court-ordered eviction of the alleged squatter, Sakemeyia Johnson. However, Johnson, who had been living in the house without Hale's consent, was still inside and had brought along another individual to confront Hale.
According to Hale, the locks on the house had been broken, and Johnson’s companion forced entry into the home. Police were called to the scene, but instead of removing Johnson, officers arrested Hale for trespassing and making threats.
Legal Complications
The dispute between Hale and Johnson dates back to August 2023, when Hale discovered Johnson living in the home without authorization. Johnson, who is related to a partner of a previous tenant, was initially cited for squatting. However, a Clayton County judge later ruled that Johnson was not a squatter due to her relationship with the evicted tenant’s partner.
Despite a series of court hearings and an eviction order issued on November 18, Johnson reportedly ignored the ruling and remained in the house. When Hale attempted to reclaim the property, she was charged with misdemeanor counts of criminal trespassing and terroristic threats.
Police Response
Bodycam footage from the incident showed an officer urging Hale to consider Johnson’s perspective, citing her lack of resources. The arrest report alleged that Hale had carried out an illegal eviction and threatened Johnson. Hale expressed frustration, stating, “To see that woman walk into my mom’s house while I was in the police car, something is wrong with this picture. Something is inherently wrong.”
Growing Squatting Issues in Georgia
Squatting cases have surged in Georgia in recent years. According to reports:
In 2017, there were only three squatting cases.
By 2021, the number had risen to 50.
In 2023, the state recorded 198 civil squatting cases.
Hale’s case underscores the legal complexities homeowners face when dealing with squatters, as well as the challenges of enforcing property rights.
What’s Next?
Hale plans to continue fighting to reclaim her property, though she now faces legal battles of her own. Meanwhile, Johnson remains in the home and has not been charged. The case has reignited debates over squatting laws in Georgia, with calls for clearer legislation to protect homeowners from similar situations.
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