Maryland Lawmaker Proposes Registry for Repeat Squatters

A Republican lawmaker in Maryland is advocating for a state registry to track individuals accused of squatting repeatedly in homes. State Delegate Ryan Nawrocki from Baltimore County suggests that the database should resemble a sex offender registry. This would enable law enforcement and property owners to identify frequent squatters. Sex offender registries are managed by the government and require convicted individuals to provide personal information, which is often accessible to the public.

Nawrocki emphasizes that the registry would not target single incidents but would focus on individuals who squat repeatedly. This would help law enforcement understand who they are dealing with when they respond to such situations. Newsweek has attempted to contact Nawrocki for further comments.

Background on Recent Incidents

The push for a squatter registry follows a recent incident in Baltimore County. Police discovered that Germarcco Dante Trayham, aged 45, was allegedly squatting in a newly renovated home. Trayham had presented authorities with a lease, which also occurred in a separate incident in January. Investigation revealed inconsistencies in Trayham’s documents, including unverifiable information about the landlord.

Trayham’s history of squatting is accompanied by a criminal record involving armed robbery, assault, theft, and firearm offenses. Baltimore County Police have been contacted for comments by Newsweek.

Legislative Actions and Challenges

Lawmakers have recently passed bipartisan legislation focusing on fraudulent leases often used in squatting cases. This new law will come into effect in October. The legislation stipulates that individuals creating fake residential leases with the intent to defraud could face felony charges, carrying penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment.

Currently, Maryland lacks a registry specifically for squatters. Nawrocki proposed a bill, HB202, in January aimed at criminalizing organized squatting. He argues that families should not endure lengthy civil court battles to reclaim their homes. Unfortunately, the bill did not pass.

National Perspective on Squatting

Although comprehensive national data on squatting is limited, housing groups and legislators have noted increasing concerns over the issue. A 2024 survey by the National Rental Home Council identified more than 1,800 squatter-occupied homes across three major metropolitan areas. In response, states like Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee have enacted laws to expedite squatter removal and bolster protections for property owners.

The rise in housing costs, the prevalence of vacant properties, and long eviction processes have contributed to the growing attention on squatting. This issue continues to be a significant concern for property owners and lawmakers.

For more information on this story, contact Newsweek editors Jenni Fink and Gray R. Thomas.