Homeowner on family of 5 taking over his late father’s home in northeast Houston: ‘I am devastated’

In northeast Houston, a man is grappling with the challenge of removing trespassers from his late father’s home.

Police were called to the residence on Wicklowe Street after the homeowner, Richard Ybara, reported that five individuals were occupying the property and refusing to vacate.

Ybara initially extended leniency to the trespassers because they claimed to have nowhere else to go. However, he reached his limit on Saturday and decided to take action.

He stated that if the trespassers do not leave within two weeks, he intends to press charges against them. Ybara expressed disbelief at the situation, emphasizing that the home is his inheritance from his father, who passed away in 2018.

Approximately a month ago, a family of five moved into the property without permission, according to Ybara. He recounted confronting one of the individuals, who identified himself as “David,” and demanding that they vacate the premises immediately.

Despite his efforts to maintain the property, including paying property taxes totaling $2,600 last year, Ybara noted that the house lacks basic utilities such as running water and electricity.

While filing a police report, Ybara overheard officers discussing a purported agreement with the trespassers, which he vehemently denies.

Despite the challenging situation, Ybara emphasized his right to decide who resides in the property, asserting that the trespassers are not authorized occupants.

If Ybara proceeds with pressing charges, the police can only request the trespassers to leave. However, if they refuse, legal eviction proceedings may be necessary.

Ybara expressed his devastation and frustration with the situation, underscoring his efforts to address the matter while grappling with emotional distress.