Squatters leave deceased man’s home after Channel 2 reports, DeKalb Commissioner N. Massiah speaks out

DEKALB COUNTY, GA — Squatters who had occupied the home of a local family’s late father left the home, bringing a sigh of relief to the family who had begged county officials for help.  

The squatters moved out of the Spring Valley homedays after Channel 2 Action News confronted them and aired stories about the situation. Channel 2, which broke the story, was on the scene as deputies went through every room of the house on Monday, June 2. The television station had reported that some of the occupants had criminal records.

DeKalb County District 3 Commissioner Nicole Massiah had issued a statement today condemning the squatters and promising to fight to help the Oliver family get their home back. 

The squatters had claimed to have legal documentation of ownership and refused to vacate the home, one of them telling the said to the news station’s reporter he was inviting Channel 2’s reporter that the only thing he had to say he wanted people to come out to the pool party.  

Marcus Oliver and family members said that the group of squatters moved into their childhood home illegally and had refused to move. The family begged for help and urged county officials to get involved.    

Massiah said the incident, which sparked outrage in the community, underscores a growing concern among DeKalb residents regarding vulnerabilities tied to inherited or vacant properties. The incident, she said, also spotlights broader issues around legacy ownership, and the emotional toll placed on families seeking to preserve home ownership.

Massiah issued the following statement:

“This situation is heartbreaking and deeply frustrating for families experiencing this type of disregard for respect and property rights. Our office has been in contact with the property owners, the community, and DeKalb County Police. We are closely monitoring the situation

and are working diligently to help rectify it.

We stand in full solidarity with the family, the neighbors and DeKalb County Officers. We remain committed to protecting the integrity of our communities and upholding the property rights of DeKalb County residents.”

Massiah said the Board of Commissioners would continue to assess how existing policies, code compliance procedures, and other means to determine how to provide protection from exploitation and unlawful occupation of homes and buildings.

“We will continue to acknowledge and address public concern around squatting related issues, particularly in communities experiencing transition, disinvestment, and developmental pressures,” said Massiah.

For more information, contact Commissioner Nicole Massiah’s office at 404-371-2425 or send an email to district3@dekalbcountyga.gov.