Criminal trespassing & stolen property?

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I've been having trouble evicting a roommate who is not on the lease for non-payment of rent. I just returned from out of town & he changed all the door locks, where I'm unable to gain entry to my rental home. I also found out he stole my dog & gave it away to someone & has been doing drugs on the property besides moving in some of his friends. Can I turn off the utilities on them & file charges for criminal trespassing & stolen property? Please help...

Attorney Answers

2
Mark Allen LandBusiness AttorneyAustin, TX ·
Well, you have to give him credit for being brazen. You should contact a lawyer to help you get him evicted and to take the proper steps to get him out - and consider suing him for you damages. Terrible story. I wish you luck on getting it resolved.
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David Jahan SadeghLandlord / Tenant LawyerHumble, TX ·
It may be illegal for you to turn off the utilities, but you should have the right to file criminal charges for theft. You may be able to regain access to the premises through a restraining order. You could also begin the eviction process by giving the roommate a written notice to vacate (you may want to mail the notice by certified and regular mail and give him and his friends six days to move). If he doesn't move by the deadline, you can file an eviction with the justice of the peace. It is unlikely he would be considered a trespasser if you originally gave him permission to move in.
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