A homeowner on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe returned from a three-week vacation on June 5 to find his residence had been unlawfully occupied, his belongings disturbed, and some items stolen. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office identified Clarence Zillman as a person of interest in the case.
Investigators allege that Zillman left a wallet containing a Visa debit card in his name and a Safeway receipt for two packs of Camel cigarettes inside the home. The homeowner also reported that his birth certificate was missing, and that food and clothing had been taken.
Surveillance footage from a Safeway in Zephyr Cove, on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe, was reviewed. The footage, which captured the cigarette purchase, provided a clear image of a man wearing a blue plaid shirt and a baseball cap. The homeowner recognized the shirt and cap as his own, according to police.
Authorities released the surveillance image to the public, seeking assistance in identifying the individual, who they believe to be Zillman. The investigation remained active as of July 9.
The Sheriff's Office stated that the individual is a person of interest until sufficient evidence is gathered to formally accuse him of squatting. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to contact Investigator JT Davis at 775-586-7253.
