Praise for Queens DA Melinda Katz as she takes strong action against squatters: keep it up!
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz is taking strong action against a house-thief in a victory against squatters in New York City.
Lance White-Hunt and accomplice Rondie Francis attempted to steal a Jamaica duplex from its rightful owners, using fabricated documents to support their claim.
They even used these documents in a lawsuit against the actual owners to try and claim the property as theirs.
Queens DA Katz has responded with an 18-count indictment, including charges of burglary and identity theft that could result in a 15-year prison sentence.
Squatting is a crime that undermines the social contract and the legal system, depriving rightful owners of their property.
New York City’s laws have been interpreted to grant rights to squatters after 30 days, creating challenges for property owners to reclaim their homes.
Recent laws targeting squatters have been criticized for not providing a fast-track removal process, leading to delays in cases like that of Brian Rodriguez.
Queens DA Katz’s approach highlights the importance of deterrents to prevent house theft and protect property rights.
New Yorkers need more actions like this to address the issue of squatters quickly.