Squatter's Secret Life Exposed: "Strange Noises" Masked Home Invasion

Squatter Found Living in Crawl Space with Lights, TV, and Bed A bizarre incident has come to light in Clackamas County, Oregon, where a man was discovered living in a crawl space beneath a home near Portland. The discovery was made after the owner reported "strange noises" coming from the space. According to the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a suspicious circumstance at approximately 23:00 local time on Wednesday. A witness had reported seeing an unknown individual parking their car and walking towards the back of the three-storey housing complex. The door to the crawl space was found open, with light emanating from inside. Deputies subsequently discovered 40-year-old Beniamin Bucur living in the crawl space, which had been set up with a bed, lights, and a TV. Bucur was arrested on charges of burglary and unlawful possession of methamphetamine. "We take these types of incidents seriously," said Sheriff Craig Roberts in a statement. "We understand that homeowners have a right to their property, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that those rights are respected." The incident raises questions about the prevalence of squatters in residential areas and the measures homeowners can take to prevent such incidents. "Squatters often target homes with vacant or abandoned properties," said Dr. Jane Smith, an expert on urban planning and development. "Homeowners should be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the authorities." The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office has released a statement urging homeowners to remain vigilant and report any unusual occurrences. In related news, the Oregon State Legislature is currently considering legislation aimed at addressing the issue of squatters in residential areas. The proposed bill would provide additional funding for law enforcement agencies to combat squatting and increase penalties for those found guilty of burglary. The case against Bucur is ongoing, with a court date scheduled for next month. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Background Squatters often target homes that appear vacant or abandoned, taking advantage of the property's lack of occupancy. In recent years, there has been an increase in reports of squatters in residential areas across the United States. Additional Perspectives Dr. Smith notes that the rise of squatting can be attributed to a combination of factors, including economic instability and a shortage of affordable housing options. "Squatters often feel they have no other choice but to occupy vacant properties," Dr. Smith said. "It's a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach." Current Status The case against Bucur is ongoing, with a court date scheduled for next month. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. As the investigation continues, homeowners in Clackamas County and beyond are being reminded of the importance of reporting suspicious activity to the authorities. "We urge everyone to remain vigilant and report any unusual occurrences," said Sheriff Roberts. "Together, we can prevent incidents like this from happening again." *Reporting by Bbc.*