In a shocking turn of events, a convicted fraudster and alleged serial squatter, Heather Schwab, has once again found herself in legal trouble. First-time homeowners in Texas are currently embroiled in a massive fight to evict Schwab, whom they believe to be the same individual who was previously jailed in Colorado for defrauding landlords. The Rowlett Police Department has charged Schwab with fraudulent securing of document execution, a felony, after she allegedly failed to pay rent in a Texas home.
According to reports, Schwab had made a rental agreement with the homeowners, promising to pay $3,100 per month for a 12-month contract. However, she never fulfilled her payment obligations, prompting the homeowners to take legal action. The charge against Schwab is an uncommon one, and the police department is calling on the public to provide any information that could lead to her whereabouts.
Schwab, who had recently been released from prison after serving 16 months for felony identity theft related to serial squatting, had gained public attention earlier this year when a homeowner in Rowlett discovered that she had moved into their house without paying rent. Despite the homeowner’s repeated attempts to seek help from local officials, the matter was initially dismissed as a civil case.
The homeowners, Jessica and Colin Davis, had purchased the property as their first home and decided to rent it out when Jessica had to relocate for work. They advertised the property online and unknowingly rented it to Schwab, who used a false identity to secure the home. However, the payments never went through, and the Davises never received any money from Schwab.
Upon discovering Schwab’s true identity and criminal history, the Davis family hired a lawyer and began the eviction process. Local media attention on the case helped expedite the removal of Schwab and her son from the property. However, the home was left in deplorable condition, with a strong smell of urine and cigarette smoke, as well as trash and debris scattered throughout.
Jessica Davis expressed frustration with the local police’s handling of the situation, claiming that they ignored her pleas for help until the media became involved. She believes that negligence and a lack of communication within the department have led to her current financial struggles. The ordeal has left the Davis family financially burdened, with unpaid rent, water bills, legal fees, and cleaning expenses.
Authorities have revealed that Schwab was last seen driving a 2005 Dodge Ram with a Colorado license plate. If apprehended and found guilty, she could face up to 10 years in prison or a $10,000 fine.
This case sheds light on the issue of serial squatting and the challenges faced by homeowners in dealing with fraudulent tenants. It serves as a cautionary tale for potential landlords and highlights the need for better communication and support from law enforcement agencies in addressing such matters.
