In a bizarre turn of events, a Georgia homeowner found herself facing criminal trespass charges after attempting to return to her own home, which was occupied by a squatter. Loletha Hale's attempt to reclaim her property followed a judge's ruling in her favor, concluding a protracted legal battle with the alleged squatter, Sakemeyia Johnson. However, according to WSB-TV, police intervened, alleging that Hale had carried out an "illegal eviction" and forcibly removed Johnson's belongings.

Hale expressed her frustration to WSB-TV, highlighting the irony of the situation: "To see that woman walk into my mom’s house while I was in the police car, something is wrong with this picture. Something is inherently wrong with this picture." She described spending the night in jail under harsh conditions while the squatter remained in her home. Police stated that Hale lacked a "signed writ of possession," a legal document required for a lawful eviction.

A squatter attempting to enter an abandoned property in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Johnson recounted her version of the incident to police, claiming she was surprised by Hale and another individual, leading her to lock the door before it was forced open. Hale, however, believed Johnson had vacated the premises following the court ruling in November. She told WSB-TV that she returned to begin renovations only to discover the locks had been tampered with.

Police detain squatters in South Fulton, Georgia. (FOX 5 Atlanta)

This incident highlights a growing trend of squatter cases in Georgia. A report by the Pacific Legal Foundation revealed a significant increase in such cases brought to court, rising from just three in 2017 to 50 in 2021 and a staggering 198 in 2023. While Hale was arrested and charged, Johnson has not faced any legal repercussions, according to WSB-TV. The Clayton County Police Department has not yet responded to requests for comment.