The “optics” of a homeowner handcuffed after changing the locks on a squatter in her Queens home worth $1 million pushed New York lawmakers to enact a harsh new law to protect property owners, a real estate attorney told Fox News Digital.
A portion of New York’s 2024 state budget agreement, signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul Monday, specifically excludes squatters from tenant protections under state law.
The language defines a squatter as someone staying on a property without permission from its owner or the owner’s representative.
This wording, lawmakers said, will make it easier for police to intervene in squatting cases, sparing homeowners months or even years in housing court.
Real estate lawyer Michael Romer told Fox News Digital the case of Brian Rodriguez pushed lawmakers “over the finish line” to pass anti-squatter legislation.
Rodriguez had allegedly commandeered and subletted a home in Queens and summoned police to detain owner Adele Andaloro after she tried to change the locks.
“I think this is what pushed it over the finish line, the investigation surrounding this case and the media surrounding this case. The optics of a homeowner being taken from their own home in handcuffs. That picture is what inspired Albany to act earlier today,” Romer said.
Read more at https://nypost.com/2024/04/24/us-news/homeowners-score-legal-victory-in-new-york-after-landlord-handcuffed-in-1m-home-heist/
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