Suffolk Reporter

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R,C-Medford) addressed the pressing issue of property laws and squatting-related incidents in New York State during a recent press conference at the New York State Capitol. Standing alongside landlords and small property owners, DeStefano highlighted the need for legislative changes to protect homeowners from squatters.

The catalyst for this call to action was a tragic incident involving Nadia Vitels, a woman from Spain who was brutally murdered by squatters in a Manhattan apartment owned by her late mother. DeStefano emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Homeownership should not be ruled by the laws of 'finders keepers.' Currently, the law allows individuals who occupy a property for just 30 days to force property owners into lengthy legal battles to regain control."

Furthermore, DeStefano lamented the shift in societal norms regarding property rights, noting, "Homeownership used to be the American Dream, but the degradation of respect towards property rights has allowed for trespassers to have more rights than homeowners. It’s now the Criminals’ Dream." He expressed confidence in the proposed legislation, which aims to restore common sense to property rights and hold criminals accountable. DeStefano concluded by asserting, "It’s time to start treating criminals like criminals."

The bill presented by DeStefano and his colleagues seeks to clarify the definition of "tenant" to exclude squatters, thereby closing loopholes that enable opportunistic individuals to exploit property owners. This legislative initiative underscores the importance of safeguarding homeowners' rights and restoring integrity to the concept of homeownership in New York State.