Illegal and unsanitary squatting..lot next door

[punafish]

I've posted my experience on this before. It was not a long, uncomfortable process.

Here's a true story that I shared in a previous thread:

Squatters were discovered in the house of our friend who doesn't live here full time. So I contacted the County Prosecutor to ask for advice. He said to assemble the following information then file a police report:

Homeowner's name
Address of Hawaii house being occupied
Homeowner's mainland address
Homeowner's last stay in Hawaii
Date you noticed it was occupied with the squatters
Home furnishings (ex: sofa, bed, fridge, dining table, cd player, kitchen accessories, etc.)

*Note that the police might also want to know when the previous renters left
*Also might want to check to see if the squatters changed the electric or water bills to their names.

So we called the police and they came to our home where we filed a report. They went immediately to the property only to find it empty. So they spoke with the neighbors and asked them to call if the squatters returned. Well, the story has a happy ending. Two days later the neighbors were kind enough to call when the squatters returned. The police showed up and arrested the occupants (one of whom, turns out, was wanted for burglaries around Puna).

No lawyers were needed. Just some information and patience. Best of luck.

[nanasohana]

This is a lot we sold last year next to our house. We are on the mainland until about January. We have a family living there right now and just told us about the situation..getting to be too much for them. I am trying to contact the owner on Oahu and had to do some google to find the co-owner...and sending letter to them. I also sent an email to the Pros. Att. in hilo. So we will see what happens with that.

If the situation is still going on when we get there, then we maybe we can deal with it then.

If drugs weren't involved, I would be less worried...but the sanitation issue is not a small one either.

And if they were not right next door, and did this out on some land, that is still less of a problem but this is too close. It goes back to everyone can do as they please..if it doesn't effect others, besides the point it breaks laws.

[nanasohana]

So I reported this to PA and Bldg. violations. No response for a week. I also sent a letter to the property owner who called me today. A little different situation than I was told.
This is a family with 3 kids, mother works (boyfriend..not sure). They built a small shelter, have porta potty, moved from below flow. She says no drugs. Did not get offensive with me and explained they are in the process of getting building permit.
Hope this is the case and if so, we will help them as much as we can.

[Rob Tucker]

Cool. This may be one of those assume the best and ask questions situations.

[nanasohana]

Absolutely, Rob.

[punalvr]

Right on. Good luck! It seems it is going to be OK. Take a deep breath!!

punalvr

[ericlp]

maybe they will move back! Lower Puna that is



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[JohnDW]

Nancy,

If I were you I'd:
1) document everything (photos, dates, etc)
2) avoid any and all contact with the squatters
3) raise hell with Planning, Building, and Health Departments
4) call the police at any sign of law breaking
5) alert your Neighborhood Watch
6) contact an attorney
7) hope for the best, but prepare for the worst
8) realize there are "Professional Squatter" who know all the ropes
9) gather information on the subjects including boyfriends etc (many have criminal records: see Hawaii Judiciary)
10) Work with other neighbors who should also do 1-9

It works if you work it.

Un Mojado Sin Licencia

[nanasohana]

John, I believe at this point it is a different situation than I was lead to believe. They own the lot and are a family getting ready to build and have temperory but sanitary conditions. Won't know for sure until we are there in person. I want to assume the best at this time, especially with the emergency situtation going on. Maybe they are doing the best they can right now. I am such a pioneer type that I can understand it. If things aren't the way they told me they are, then my attitude and actions will change.

[lavalava]

Bump.