Sanchez Deandre Lewis, a Baltimore father, has established a business called 'Squatter King Removal' to forcibly evict squatters, a venture born from his frustration with what he describes as lenient eviction policies.
Lewis, a former convict who began his entrepreneurial journey with a trash removal service six years ago after his release, encountered frequent issues with unauthorized occupants residing in properties he was hired to clear. He stated that the existing legal framework often leaves property owners in difficult situations, with police sometimes deeming squatter issues as civil matters beyond their immediate intervention.
Describing his team as 'the Wolf Pack,' Lewis explained that their methods aim to make life as uncomfortable as possible for squatters until they vacate the premises. These tactics include boarding up windows and entrances, removing doors and locks, and consistent pressure, all while asserting that his team does not resort to assault or physical removal.
"Me and my wolves, we go above and beyond to get these houses back," Lewis told WJLA. "Police said we can’t remove somebody, so lawfully, the only thing we can do is what we could do." He characterizes his approach as "street justice."
Lewis charges approximately $2,000 per eviction, with costs varying based on the complexity of the situation. He recounted one instance involving over 50 individuals illegally occupying a building in the Washington D.C. area. He also mentioned using smoke bombs and bear spray for defensive purposes during his operations.
Lewis's business has reportedly seen significant growth, which he attributes to what he perceives as Maryland's tenant-friendly laws. He has observed squatters presenting fraudulent leases, complicating the process for property owners and managers.
In response to concerns over squatting issues, Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed two pieces of legislation in May. These new laws aim to establish criminal penalties for the creation or possession of counterfeit real estate leases and expedite 'wrongful detainer cases.' However, these measures are not slated to take effect until October.
Lewis, who is a father to a five-year-old daughter, sometimes shares videos on social media that show her assisting him with property cleanouts, as well as clips depicting his encounters with squatters. He initially started his trash removal service as a way to deter drug dealing and found the transition to squatter removal to be financially successful, noting he made $100,000 in his first year of operation.
