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Las Vegas realtors packing heat for protection against squatters

Posted at 11:19 PM, Jul 14, 2017
and last updated 2017-07-15 15:07:46-04
In addition to homeowners and neighbors, a different group also says they're being terrorized by squatters in the valley.
 
"This is the second time they broke in," said realtor Eddie Lavin.
 
The property near Flamingo and Mountain Vista is under contract.  
 
Lavin was conducting a check  when he says he had a confrontation with an aggressive crew.
 
"Absolutely I'm afraid," said Lavin's friend and co-realtor.
 
The woman didn't want her name released.  
 
"I'm a mom, I have a 14 year-old beautiful girl," she said, "I'm all she has."
 
The duo tells 13 Action News they both carry a weapon on the job for protection against squatters.
 
Cell phone video shows the mess created by squatters at the property on Flamingo.
 
Squatters left behind needles, drugs, and food.  
 
Lavin said they also destroyed cabinets, doors, and walls.
 
"Why do we not have protection for individual homeowners when somebody breaks into their property," said the woman, "...they figured out a way to skirt the system."
 
Lavin and his partner say they're frustrated the squatters were not arrested.
 
"They made a ghost key," said the woman, " ...therefore, there's nothing we can do."
 
One piece of advice if you're selling or just purchased a home,  make sure you do  not advertise the property is vacant with a for sale sign outside.  Also, you should consider not publicly posting the address of the property on real estate websites.