Meet the Anti-Squatting Activist Helping Homeowners Reclaim Their Property
As squatting becomes a bigger problem in cities across the U.S., one handyman, Flash Shelton, has taken an unusual approach to deal with it. After experiencing firsthand the challenges of evicting squatters from his own family's property, Shelton developed a novel solution: he started squatting in the squatter's place. This clever workaround has gained Shelton a reputation as an anti-squatting activist, helping countless people protect their homes from illegal tenants.
Turning the Tables on Squatters
Flash Shelton's activism began when he discovered squatters had taken over his late father's home, which his family was trying to sell. Despite contacting local law enforcement, Shelton learned that little could be done since the squatters had established themselves in the house. With furniture already in place, the authorities deemed it a "civil matter" rather than criminal trespassing. Realizing he would need to take matters into his own hands, Shelton decided to investigate squatters' rights. Over a weekend of research, he crafted a plan that would allow him to legally reclaim the home.
Shelton drove to the property, waited for the squatters to leave, and then took over the space himself. He installed cameras and firmly told the squatters they had one day to vacate or risk losing their belongings. He told them that the only way they could re-enter the house would be by breaking in on camera, which he would then use to press charges. The squatters, unwilling to face legal consequences, quickly left.
Helping Others in Need
After his success, Shelton realized he wasn't alone in facing issues with squatters. Many people reached out to him, seeking advice and support. Seeing a growing need, he began offering consultation services and, in some cases, hands-on help to those struggling to remove squatters from their properties. In cases where squatters were deeply entrenched, Shelton would have the homeowner write up a lease allowing him to occupy the house, making him a legal tenant.
Shelton's approach to removing squatters involves some creative tactics. Once inside, he takes a "live-in" approach, sharing the space with the squatters and making them uncomfortable enough to leave. From opening the fridge to sitting on the couch like it's his home, Shelton's actions are designed to show squatters that they are not in control. He even goes so far as to tell them they're on a reality show, using cameras to document every interaction. Fox Business reported him saying, "They're not only surprised, they don't know how to react."
Using Safety and De-Escalation Tactics
While Shelton's methods are bold, he emphasizes the importance of preparation and safety. As someone trained in de-escalation techniques in a previous job, he approaches each situation calmly to avoid unnecessary confrontation. He cautions others against attempting similar actions without proper planning, explaining that knowing who he's dealing with, how many people are in the home, and other critical details help him stay in control. Shelton takes safety seriously, ensuring that his approach remains as peaceful as possible.
For people who can't afford his in-person help, Shelton offers video consultations, guiding them through the process of reclaiming their homes. He believes his background in de-escalation has been invaluable in this unique line of work, allowing him to navigate complex situations without raising tempers.
Advocating for Change
Recognizing that squatting laws often work against property owners, Shelton has become a vocal advocate for legislative reform. Squatters' rights laws vary widely by state, with some jurisdictions allowing squatters to establish legal rights to a property after only a short period of time. Shelton hopes to make squatting illegal nationwide, and he's taken action to make his voice heard. He started a petition to bring squatting under federal law and launched a GoFundMe® to raise funds for his advocacy efforts.
Shelton's mission is not just to help individual homeowners; he aims to reshape the laws that currently protect squatters at the expense of property owners. In his view, changing the laws is the only way to address the growing issue of squatters effectively.
A Unique Solution for a Complex Problem
Flash Shelton's journey from a handyman to an anti-squatting activist has been an unexpected one, driven by a personal experience that highlighted flaws in current squatting laws. His unconventional approach of becoming a "tenant" to reclaim homes has resonated with people across the country, many of whom face similar struggles. Through his work, Shelton is shedding light on an often overlooked problem and inspiring others to stand up for their rights. As the debate over squatting laws continues, Shelton's story serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of one person's determination to make a difference.
References: Handyman finds clever way to remove squatters from mother's house | This handyman will move in with your squatters and force them out
