CHICAGO, IL – When Marco Velazquez discovered strangers living in his South Side home, he took an unconventional approach to reclaim his property. Instead of a lengthy legal battle, Velazquez moved in with the alleged squatters, determined to make them uncomfortable enough to leave.
The unexpected tenants, Charmaine Powell and her boyfriend, claimed they had legally purchased the house. They even presented documentation to the police, but county records showed no such transaction.
Faced with Illinois laws that prevented immediate removal of the couple, Velazquez, his wife, and several friends brought air mattresses and spent the night in the living room. The couple occupied a bedroom but showed no signs of leaving.
The next morning, the couple demanded $8,000 to vacate. After negotiations, Velazquez agreed to pay them $4,300 in a cash-for-keys deal. Though reluctant, he feared prolonged legal disputes.
A few weeks later, Velazquez learned from a detective that Powell had been involved in a similar case of squatting nearby. Charges of burglary and forgery were filed against her in that incident.
Hoping for justice, Velazquez is working with police to address his case. He shares his story to alert others to the legal and financial challenges of dealing with squatters.
Powell denies the allegations, asserting her innocence. Her boyfriend, Cody Breaux, has not commented, and police have yet to confirm an ongoing investigation.
This incident underscores the complexities of property ownership and the difficulties homeowners face in resolving squatter disputes.