Following an increase in reports and calls for service related to squatters, the Amarillo Police Department is reminding property owners to regularly monitor vacant properties.
“In many cases, squatters temporarily occupy vacant homes or buildings, causing significant damage before moving on,” APD said in a community update. “While officers can remove individuals once they are discovered, and charge them with trespassing and damages, the damage to the property is often already done — resulting in financial and emotional hardship for owners.”
Police encourage property owners to take steps to help prevent unauthorized entry, including:
Property owners with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the APD Public Information Office at apdcrimeprev@amarillo.gov.
APD also offers free security assessments to help owners identify ways to better protect vacant properties.
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo PD urges owners to secure property to deter squatters
Reporting by Kristina Wood, Amarillo Globe-News / Amarillo Globe-News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
