In Georgia, Loletha Hale was arrested after attempting to reclaim her own home from a squatter. The property, previously owned by Hale’s late mother, had been occupied by Sakemeyia Johnson, who had ties to an evicted tenant. Despite a court ruling on November 18 in Hale’s favor, Johnson allegedly ignored the eviction order and continued to occupy the home. When Hale returned to the house to begin cleaning and repairs, she found the locks broken and Johnson still residing there.
Police were called during the confrontation, and bodycam footage captured officers advising Hale to consider Johnson’s circumstances. Hale was subsequently arrested and charged with criminal trespassing and making terroristic threats. According to the police report, Hale had allegedly attempted an illegal eviction and threatened to retrieve a firearm. Johnson, however, faced no charges and was allowed to remain in the house.
Hale expressed frustration at the situation, calling it “inherently wrong” that she was arrested while the squatter remained in her mother’s home. She questioned how someone with no legal or contractual relationship to the property could avoid being classified as a squatter. The incident highlights the increasing prevalence of squatting issues in Georgia, which saw nearly 200 civil squatting cases in 2023.
This case has sparked public outrage and debate about property rights and the challenges homeowners face when dealing with squatters. Critics argue that current laws can unfairly protect illegal occupants at the expense of rightful property owners, leaving many like Hale feeling powerless.
