Addressing Squatters in Indianapolis: Agencies Face Challenges

In Indianapolis, a neighborhood on the southeast side experienced a heavy police presence and loud banging after a property owner called authorities about someone living in their home without permission.

The incident occurred at a residence on Hoyt Avenue near Southeastern and Keystone avenues. According to Donna Owens, a resident of the area, the homeowner was unable to gain entry due to dogs blocking the way and subsequently contacted the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) and Indianapolis Animal Care Services.

Owens stated, “The owner of the house was over there at 2339 Hoyt Ave., and the person who is there does not belong there. She’s a squatter. The owner couldn’t get in because of the dogs, so he called the police.”

When IMPD arrived, they attempted to contact the individual inside but received no response. Neighbors reported that police told them a search warrant would be required to proceed further.

Owens reflected on the situation, saying, “That used to be my house growing up, so it’s sad to me that they’ve destroyed it. However, we couldn’t do anything about it until yesterday, when it was on Channel 8. I asked him how he heard about this. He said on News 8.”

This is not the first time issues have arisen in the neighborhood. Two weeks prior, a woman was sent to the hospital after being attacked by a pack of pit bulls.

Another resident, Robert Thomas, expressed concern about the situation, stating, “The dogs jump the fence and they chase all the kids here. They come into my yard. They’ve killed my cats, and we’ve had Animal Control out here two or three times, and they can never contact the people because they won’t answer the door.”

Owens noted that the individual occupying the property has been there for approximately two years, stating, “She’s been there approximately two years. I said it from the get-go … because she isn’t receiving any mail.”

Residents are left wondering what will be done to address the issue, with Thomas saying, “It’s every day, and hopefully they will finally do something about it.”

News 8 reached out to IMPD and Animal Care Services for comment. IMPD was unable to provide further information as the individual could not be reached.

Animal Care Services released a statement:

“Any person who witnesses an animal welfare concern and/or has evidence of an animal welfare concern should contact [email protected].”