Handyman offers squatter removal services
Handyman Flash Shelton is using his experience with removing squatters from his mother's California home to offer squatter removal services to others who are in need.
An Army reservist serving on active duty is battling a squatter occupying her Houston townhome.
"It's been emotionally draining to the point where I've had therapy," Mikiya Barber, 26, told ABC 13. "I wouldn't wish this on anyone."
After being called to serve in Florida, Barber said she rented the home she purchased last fall to Natasha Timmons, who only paid for the first two months and has cost her over $50,000 so far. That means Timmons has lived in the home for about nine months without paying, ABC 13 estimates.
HANDYMAN OFFERS SQUATTER REMOVAL SERVICES
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Last week, a judge ordered Timmons to pay rent at a hearing. An eviction hearing is scheduled for Monday.
Timmons' background check appeared clear after Barber ran it. The reservist rented the home to her for $2,000 a month.
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Natasha Timmons, who is accused of squatting, was convicted of theft in 2003. (KTRK)
But Fox News confirmed that Timmons was convicted of theft in 2003 and has filed four bankruptcy cases, including two while living at the home.
Barber said she tried to come to a resolution to help Timmons with rent.
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"I tried to make a payment plan for her," the first lieutenant said. "Then, she started threatening me to file bankruptcy and making sure I go through this process."
Mikiya Barber excitedly posted a photo when she first bought the townhome in the fall of 2022. (KTRK)
"I don't know why she doesn't want to let go of my home," she added.
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Timmons told a Harris County judge on Monday that she no longer had active bankruptcy cases, reported ABC 13.
"She is living in the house and making it known she's not leaving my house," Barber told the local news outlet after the court hearing. She said she took time off of serving to appear in court.
Mikiya Barber said the situation with Natasha Timmons has been emotionally draining and led to her seeking out therapy. (KTRK)
She added that she is excited about the next hearing and expects Timmons to be out soon.
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"It’s been terrible," Barber said. "It’s very stressful."
Neighbors provided videos of Timmons and others driving luxury cars and washing them in the driveway, ABC 13 reported.
Barber and Timmons did not immediately return a request for comment.