EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Deputies from the El Paso County Constable’s Office, Precinct Three, removed unauthorized occupants from a vacant residence in South-Central El Paso on Thursday.
The incident happened in the 500 block of Barcelona Drive.
During the operation, deputies and officers secured the property and ensured the removal was completed without incident.
Harrison Parker reports on El Paso deputies clear 5 ‘squatters’ from vacant home in south-central El Paso (Credit: KFOX14)
Among the five individuals removed, 49-year-old Edgar Sealy was taken into custody.
Officials said Sealy was a “squatter,” an outstanding criminal warrant for tampering with physical evidence.
This enforcement action is the first in El Paso County since new Texas laws took effect on Sept. 1, 2025.
Senate Bill 1333 allows sheriffs and constables to act promptly on verified complaints of unauthorized occupancy, while Senate Bill 38 streamlines civil eviction proceedings.
A judge’s signature is not required for this type of enforcement.
“This enforcement action reflects our ongoing commitment to upholding property rights, community safety, and the rule of law,” said a representative from the El Paso County Constable’s Office. The operation underscores the critical role of local law enforcement in implementing state law reforms to address unlawful occupancy.
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