Chicago Man Moves In With Squatters Who Took Over His Home

In a unique attempt to reclaim his property, Chicago homeowner Marco Velazquez moved in with alleged squatters who refused to vacate his house. Velazquez discovered the squatters, Shermaine C. Powell and Codarro T. Dorsey, in his South Side property when his realtor visited with a potential buyer. The couple claimed they owned the home, presenting a mortgage document that was not on record with Cook County.

Velazquez was unable to evict the squatters due to Illinois laws requiring a lengthy eviction process. Frustrated, he decided to move into the house with his wife and friends, spending a night in the living room while the squatters stayed in a bedroom. Despite his efforts, the squatters demanded $8,000 to leave, but eventually agreed to a cash-for-key settlement of $4,300.

Powell, who has faced previous charges of squatting, maintains her innocence, stating she is "innocent until proven guilty." Meanwhile, Illinois lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 1563, known as the "Squatter's Bill," which would allow for the immediate removal of squatters if the rightful owner can prove ownership. Velazquez hopes the bill will pass to prevent similar situations in the future.