Neighbors having grown tired of a troublesome rental on the block “took matters into their own hands” and evicted the tenants illegally. Both are now facing misdemeanor charges.
According to the Detroit News, Timothy Smith and Monica Kaufman each face up to 93 days in jail for two misdemeanor charges each. Both face malicious destruction of property and breaking and entering charges after what amounted to a serious house cleaning last weekend.
One rental in their Clawson neighborhood had been a source of stress for several months, bringing the police into the neighborhood on several occasions. The tenants, however, had a legal lease in effect until December, despite the home in question entering foreclosure.
The neighbors stated the home held up to 9 people at any given time that would come and go from windows. Fighting, loud music, and pit bulls were the basic complaints as it seems the home was a party house. While the police admit to making several appearances at the home, they state drugs were not a factor to their knowledge.
Last weekend the two neighbors entered the home through a window and emptied all of the contents. They then nailed the windows shut.
Malicious destruction of property is the most common property offense in our state. It applies when you willfully destroy the property of another. The penalty faced depends on the property in question. From the description of the charges in this case, the damage that the neighborly duo caused was likely valued at less than $200.
Charges of malicious destruction of property can be as serious as a felony, however, carrying a potential 10 years in prison and large fines.
It seems these neighbors weren’t likely thinking of the consequences of their actions when they performed this act of vigilante justice. Or, maybe they did but they considered the risk to be worth it.
Perhaps you find yourself in a similar situation. One where you committed an act that seemed rational at the time but now you face criminal charges for it. Whether you are looking at malicious destruction of property charges or theft charges, I may be able to help.
Contact me today to discuss the details of your case.
