A Houston public school teacher and her family were recently evicted from a luxury home after allegedly squatting there for several months. The fourth-grade teacher, Amberlyn Prather, reportedly moved into the property in January with her family and fabricated a lease agreement, according to reports from ABC 13. Realtor Shanequa Garrett, tasked with selling the home, stated she was unable to access the property since January due to the family's presence. Garrett explained she made multiple court appearances to have the family removed, but the issue was initially deemed a civil matter. However, a judge eventually ruled in Garrett's favor, recognizing the lease as fraudulent. The family vacated the premises on June 15th, following a court order issued earlier that month. Garrett expressed relief at the family's departure and emphasized the need to prevent future squatting incidents. She also revealed how the family likely gained entry: through a loose window accessible via a trash can and the roof, bypassing repeated rekeying efforts. This case highlights the growing issue of squatting across the nation. In some areas, like New York, the problem has become increasingly prevalent, prompting legal professionals to advise property owners to adopt a more business-like approach to property management as a protective measure.
Former alleged squatters' residence in Houston (Google Maps)
Houston skyline view (Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images)
Street view of the former alleged squatters' residence (Google Maps)
