Homeowner jailed for calling police on squatter in her own house

In Georgia, on December 9, 2024, Loletha Hale, a homeowner, faced arrest after she attempted to regain access to her house that was occupied by a squatter named Sakemeyia Johnson. The incident escalated after Hale had previously secured a court ruling in her favor, but when she returned to her property, she found Johnson still inside, having changed the locks. The police intervened, and instead of removing Johnson, they arrested Hale for criminal trespass, alleging that she executed an illegal eviction without a signed writ of possession. The legal battle between Hale and Johnson began in August 2024 when Hale discovered Johnson in her home. Hale immediately contacted law enforcement for assistance, which led to Johnson being cited under the Georgia Squatter Reform Act. The situation evolved through multiple court proceedings, during which Johnson claimed she was not a squatter, arguing that she was related to a previously evicted tenant’s partner. In November 2024, a magistrate judge sided with Hale, ruling in her favor. However, on December 9, upon returning to her property to start cleanup and renovation, Hale learned that Johnson had removed her belongings and changed the locks. When Hale attempted to gain entrance, she was confronted by a man who was with Johnson and who forced his way into the house, prompting Hale to lock the door. The police were called, and during their response, a deputy suggested to Hale that she should understand Johnson's circumstances, implying that not everyone is as fortunate as she is to have a home. This incident has drawn significant public attention, sparking outrage over how property rights are being enforced in Georgia. Many are questioning the legal framework surrounding squatter laws. As highlighted by Hale's experience, despite being the rightful homeowner, she found herself in a position where her rights were effectively disregarded by law enforcement, illustrating the complexities and frustrations faced by homeowners when dealing with squatting laws. Johnson has not faced any criminal charges, raising further concerns about the balance between property rights and squatters' rights in the current legal landscape in Georgia. This incident underscores the growing concern among homeowners about squatting laws and their implications for property ownership.