Law Enforcement Today

Source: Law Enforcement Today
Author: Eddie Killian

NEW YORK CITY, NY - In a recent incident in New York City, a homeowner found herself in handcuffs after attempting to reclaim her million-dollar home in Flushing, Queens from alleged squatters. Adele Andaloro, 47, inherited the property from her parents and was determined to regain control. However, her efforts led to her arrest, as reported by ABC 7.

Andaloro's troubles began when she discovered individuals residing in her family's home, claiming to be tenants. Despite presenting her property deed, the individuals couldn't provide leasing documents to substantiate their claims. In a bid to secure her property, Andaloro enlisted the help of a locksmith to change the locks on her home.

However, shortly after the locks were changed, the alleged squatters returned and accused Andaloro of illegal eviction, prompting police involvement.

Under New York state law, it is illegal for landlords to take actions such as changing locks or removing belongings of individuals claiming to be tenants. Additionally, squatters in New York gain rights after 30 days of residence, turning the situation into a landlord-tenant dispute that can only be resolved through housing court.

Consequently, Andaloro was arrested for illegal eviction, despite her efforts to protect her property.

During her arrest, Andaloro stated: "It's enraging. It's not fair that I, as the homeowner, have to be going through this."

This incident highlights a growing concern over squatter-related controversies in New York City. Similar cases have emerged, such as that of Susana and Joseph Landa, who have been unable to reclaim their $2 million dream home in Douglaston, Queens from a squatter named Brett Flores.

Despite multiple attempts to evict Flores, including hiring security guards and legal proceedings, the Landas remain entangled in a legal battle, unable to regain control of their property.

The Landas' plight reflects a broken system where property owners struggle to assert their rights against determined squatters. Despite efforts to navigate the legal process, homeowners like Andaloro and the Landas find themselves trapped in prolonged disputes.

Efforts to address the issue of squatters' rights in New York City have been met with mixed results. While legal protections exist to prevent unlawful evictions and provide rights to tenants, the current system often leaves property owners vulnerable to exploitation by individuals seeking to take advantage of loopholes in the law.

Andaloro voiced her apprehension about the situation, expressing, "By the time someone does their investigation, their work, and their job, it will be over 30 days and this man will still be in my home. I'm really fearful that these people are going to get away with stealing my home."

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