A group of squatters has been arrested for breaking into a deceased man’s home and living alongside his mummified body for weeks. Investigators revealed the disturbing details to WSB-TV after the discovery in Cobb County, Georgia.
Police reported that seven individuals illegally entered the home of a 71-year-old man after his death, although the exact length of time they stayed with the body is unclear. Detective Daniel Goduto explained that the man’s remains were found in the house’s only bathroom, suggesting the squatters either continued using the bathroom with the body present or made other arrangements.
The situation worsened as the squatters forged checks and used the deceased man’s credit card for purchases. A Cobb County Police spokesperson told UNILAD that the victim, believed to have no living relatives, had his property and vehicle stolen by the suspects, who now face charges of burglary and theft. The man’s cause of death is still under investigation.
A neighbor described the theft as “just sick,” noting that due to the man’s reclusive nature, she hadn’t realized he had died. It was a wellness check that led police to discover the body and the squatters. Detective Goduto said that within 24 hours of responding to the death, all suspects had been taken into custody. The house had been ransacked, and the man’s car was also reportedly stolen.
Goduto expressed dismay, stating, “It’s unfortunate they preyed on someone deceased and took his belongings and money.” Attempts to locate surviving family members were unsuccessful, as they had all passed away.
Reactions to the WSB-TV report were strong, with one commenter calling the behavior “disgusting,” while another labeled it “despicable.” Some shared similar stories, such as a case where co-workers stole a deceased friend’s car savings.
It remains unclear when the suspects will appear in court or why they lived with the body for so long. Questions also linger about how they went undetected for such a period. While “squatters’ rights” allow individuals to occupy a property if the owner doesn’t take action, this typically applies after an extended time, such as New York’s law granting “adverse possession” after 10 years.