Florida Homeowner Discovers $38K in Damages as Squatters Vandalize Property Upon Eviction 

Upon checking her home in Jacksonville before putting it up for sale, Pattie Peeples encountered an unexpected and troubling situation. Discovering two individuals inside her residence, claiming to be tenants, Peeples was informed that they had allegedly signed a lease and had a right to be there. The situation escalated when Peeples found a dog and ten puppies on the porch.

Squatter Cause $38,000 in Damages & Kick Homeowner Out of Her Own House

Despite involving the police, Peeples was informed that it was a civil matter, and law enforcement could not intervene. Determined to address the issue, Peeples initiated a formal eviction process through the courts. After weeks of legal proceedings, the court ordered the sheriff to remove the alleged squatters.

In the 24-hour notice period before their eviction, the individuals vanished, leaving Peeples to reclaim her property. However, the home had suffered extensive damage amounting to $38,000, including holes in the walls and cabinets torn out.

Peeples suspects that the alleged squatters intentionally vandalized the property as an act of revenge before departing. Highlighting the vulnerability of leaving a house vacant in the current real estate market, Peeples emphasizes the risk of attracting squatters, regardless of the location in the United States.

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