Speedy Westminster squatter arrested

Published by 24publishing for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Legal, Local Government

A squatter who broke into a flat on the same day that it became vacant has been removed and arrested.

It was the second such repossession by Westminster City Council's ALMO, CityWest Homes.

CityWest contacted police after the squatter gained access to the two-bedroom flat on Tresham Crescent, Lisson Green estate. He broke in on the same day that the previous tenant was evicted and brought his two dogs with him.

The ALMO became aware of the squatter the next day during an inspection of the property. Police later arrived and he was arrested under new anti-squatter rules that came in at the start of September.

Darren Levy, director of customer services at CityWest Homes, said: “Despite coming into effect so recently, the new anti-squatters powers are proving an invaluable weapon in our arsenal against squatting. They have enabled us to act quickly, whilst saving a great deal of time and money.

"CityWest Homes will take immediate action should any of our properties become illegally occupied.”