French Homeowner Breaks Into Her Own Squatted Property, Risks Prison and Heavy Fines

Paris, France – A French homeowner, Catherine, has resorted to breaking into her own property, which has been illegally occupied by squatters, after facing prolonged inaction from authorities. The dramatic incident, captured on video, highlights the growing frustration among property owners grappling with the complexities of eviction laws. Catherine, who relies on the property for an additional €800 per month to support her living expenses, stated, "The system is for squatters, not for property owners. We have to pay, say nothing, wait, wait, wait for procedures. It's shameful." She explained that despite filing official complaints, the process to remove the squatters has been agonizingly slow and ineffective, pushing her to take matters into her own hands. Footage shows Catherine and another individual using a hammer and an angle grinder to force open the door to her house. Legal experts warn that such actions, while understandable given the circumstances, could lead to severe penalties for the homeowner. Under French law, breaking and entering, even into one's own property if it is legally occupied by squatters, can result in up to three years in prison and a €30,000 fine. Catherine's desperate act has ignited debate on social media and among legal circles, drawing attention to the perceived imbalance in property rights and the challenges faced by owners in regaining possession of their homes.

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