Six suspected squatters detained in relation to stolen car in South Fulton

SOUTH FULTON, Ga. - The South Fulton Police Department showed up in large numbers to Caveat Court in South Fulton where police said they detained six people and recovered a stolen vehicle from a home that was supposed to be vacant.

FOX 5 Atlanta reported from the scene where it appeared a group of men were seated on the curb in handcuffs.

Hampton Oaks Homeowners Association Vice President Kendra Snorton told FOX 5 Atlanta the individuals had moved into a vacant home in the neighborhood on Christmas Day 2023.

"The ringleader, we see him walking his dog all the time. He’s very courteous and polite when he interacts with the community," Snorton said.

According to HOA President Mel Keyton, the individuals broke into another neighbor’s home and stole a car before returning to the home they were occupying.

"When the police showed up, the car was behind us in the yard. That’s how we put two and two together," Keyton said.

South Fulton Police thanked the community for their vigilance.

 Neighbors said their community has been no stranger to squatters.

"It’s dangerous. They use our amenities. They walk through the neighborhood. They break into houses," Keyton told FOX 5.

"Not knowing who’s living amongst us, it really makes you feel uneasy, and you just don’t feel safe. You don’t feel safe," Snorton said.

The HOA is hopeful the passage of the Georgia Squatter Reform Act will provide homeowners with the support they need to evict those unlawfully taking possession of their property.

"Hopefully, it won’t get this bad. Hopefully, we won’t have to use this amount of police," Keyton said.

Gov. Brian Kemp signed the Georgia Squatter Reform Act into law on April 24.