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Squatters bring drugs, prostitution, armed robbery to Atlanta neighborhood as residents push for new laws

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Squatters bring drugs, prostitution, armed robbery to Atlanta neighborhood as residents push for new laws


Communities across America are speaking out about the problem squatters pose not only to property owners but neighborhoods as a whole. One Atlanta resident said squatters have even brought drugs and prostitution to his area. 

Mel Keyton, president of the Hampton Oaks Homeowners Association, told “Fox & Friends” life has been “terrible” when trying to deal with the squatter problem. 

“We’ve had everything from fentanyl sales, prostitution rings, a person wanted for murder. We had armed robbery going on,” Keyton told co-host Lawrence Jones Thursday. 

“It’s been really, really bad.”

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FIVE TIMES SQUATTERS WERE BUSTED AFTER TAKING OVER HOMES: WHAT TO KNOW

Keyton explained that squatting is considered a civil matter, which makes it more difficult to address the problem and remove unwanted residents.

“Because the police doesn’t have any authority over civil matters, they just let them stay,” he said.

But Keyton said his neighborhood has taken direct action to address the problem, bringing the total number of squatters from 18 down to five. 

“We actually have been catching them in the act of breaking into the homes and getting them removed right back out.”

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Squatters trashed Atlanta property owner David Morris’s land during the pandemic  (Screenshot/FNC)

BLUE STATE SQUATTER PUT ON NOTICE WITH ‘AGGRESSIVE’ LAW AND ORDER BILL: ‘PEOPLE ARE GETTING KILLED’

The state of Georgia has also taken action, pushing new legislation that would give more rights to homeowners and make squatting a misdemeanor criminal offense with the possibility of jail time or fines. 

Keyton, a Democratic candidate for the Georgia State House, said the law can’t come soon enough as lawmakers await the governor’s signature.

Under the new law, potential squatters will have to present a verifiable lease agreement or be charged and face criminal penalties. They may also be required to pay back rent for the time they inhabited the living space.

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One Georgia property owner said she is now facing more than $30,000 in damages from squatters who destroyed the home. She said they broke in through doors, windows and by cutting holes in the walls.

The squatters reportedly took copper from the HVAC system, pulled the furnace out of the attic, cut the wiring and damaged the framing and siding on the house. 

Ultimately, she was forced to install a lock system on all doors and windows to keep out potential future squatters. 

An Atlanta property owner says squatters ripped wires out of the walls and caused tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage.  (Fox News)

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Though the new law will empower property owners and landlords, there are still issues with housing companies trying to cut corners and repeat squatting offenders. 

“These companies, they actually don’t have a real underwriting process,” Keyton explained. 

“And then [buyers] get these homes, and they move into them, and they really don’t understand. And then when they realize they can’t afford it, they’ll just stay in the house or they’ll leave and find another house in the same neighborhood and move into that one. So that’s been an issue.”

Fox News’ Taylor Penley contributed to this report. 



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Atlanta, GA

One Of Atlanta, Georgia’s Safest Suburbs Is An Irish-Inspired Town With Tasty Restaurants And Golf Greens – Islands

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One Of Atlanta, Georgia’s Safest Suburbs Is An Irish-Inspired Town With Tasty Restaurants And Golf Greens – Islands






County Tyrone in Northern Ireland is renowned for its outdoor offerings and historical landmarks, such as the centuries-old Beaghmore Stone Circles. Uniquely, this verdant destination is the namesake of Tyrone, Georgia, a town in Fayette County. This Atlanta suburb was established by Irish and Scottish settlers and is located about a 40-minute drive away from the Peach State’s capital. Featuring tree-lined roads and vast greenery, Tyrone’s highlights include its flourishing food scene and the Wendell Coffee Golf & Event Center, though it’s also revered for its tranquil reputation. According to SafeWise, Tyrone, which has a population of 8,025, is one of the top 10 safest cities (the sixth in 2026 to be exact) in Georgia. 

The website’s research (which uses data from the FBI) found that Tyrone only had a violent crime rate of 0.5 per 1,000 people from 2024 to 2026. However, it should be mentioned that Tyrone’s property crime rate was higher than its violent crime rate. Similarly, Tyrone holds a B- for crime and safety on Niche and is listed as the second-best place to live in Fayette County. One reviewer on the website wrote that they were grateful for this sense of security Tyrone provides, while another described it as “a nice, quiet town with small businesses and friendly people.”

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Check out these local eateries in Tyrone, Georgia

Safety aside, Tyrone is proud of its Irish and Scottish roots. The Founders Day Festival is held each October at Shamrock Park (the town’s official seal also includes a shamrock, undoubtedly a nod to its heritage). This free celebration typically has everything from carnival rides to fireworks, all to honor the town’s 19th-century settlers. Additionally, Tyrone is home to Glendalough Manor. This award-winning venue for weddings and other events looks as if it belongs in the Irish countryside. In fact, this stately structure pays tribute to the sacred destination of the same name in Ireland’s Wicklow Mountains National Park, which is a quick day trip from Dublin. Interestingly, you won’t find an Irish pub or eatery in Tyrone. 

But don’t fret, the town does offer diverse eateries, such as Nikko Japanese Steakhouse. Featuring a facade with traditional art and a koi pond, it can be likened to a local Benihana. Users on Google, where it has a 4.4 rating out of more than 1,000 reviews, say you can expect large portions and an enthusiastic staff. “Best experience and food I have had at a hibachi south of Atlanta,” wrote one individual. Sushi is served as well, with this same reviewer describing their selection (like the Peachtree City Roll, made with yellowtail and eel) as “divine.” Others write that the restaurant is extremely accommodating to diners with allergies. 

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If you’re a fan of Asian food, Modern Thai Restaurant is a woman-owned spot with a calming teal aesthetic. It has a near-perfect rating on Google, with customers recommending the yellow curry chicken. “Every bite was mouthwatering and [very] tender,” reads a review. Keep in mind that Chapultepec Mexican Grill is a few doors down and is known for its margaritas and classic South-of-the-border dishes.

Hit the links and more in Tyrone, Georgia

Tyrone might not have any major tourist attractions, but that doesn’t mean that there is nothing to do in town. For sports enthusiasts, there’s Wendell Coffee Golf & Event Center. The 50-acre site boasts a par 3 course, where you can play nine or 18 holes. Likewise, there’s a driving range with target greens and other amenities for those interested in honing their skills. On Google, a reviewer wrote that “prices are very reasonable for such a well-maintained facility.” Several others also appreciate its affordability. For reference, rates for the course are under $30, as of this writing. For added convenience, some recommend bringing cash. Wendell Coffee Golf & Event Center is open daily. 

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Not into golf? There are other activities in Tyrone to consider. You can, for instance, watch a show at the Legacy Theatre. Musicals, seasonal productions, and more for all ages are performed throughout the year. Tickets for the Legacy Theatre can be purchased online. Another place of interest is the Tyrone Museum, open on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Here, you can immerse yourself in Tyrone’s heritage as you view a sizable model train display of the town and other local relics. 

Plus, there’s more to experience in Fayette County. Nearby Peachtree City has over 100 miles of paths leading to shops, food, and resorts. Meanwhile, Fairburn, Atlanta’s fast-growing suburb with a charming downtown, is a short drive away from Tyrone as well, located in Fulton County. Tyrone, which is close to Interstate 85 and is 20 minutes away from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), does not have any hotels. However, if you’re passing through and need a place to stay, there are a few listings for charming Southern homes and guest suites in town on Airbnb. 



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Atlanta, GA

Georgia couple spots black bear on their front porch

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Georgia couple spots black bear on their front porch




Georgia couple spots black bear on their front porch – CBS Atlanta

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A Georgia homeowner got an unexpected overnight visitor this week after a bear wandered onto the family’s front porch and helped itself to a bird feeder.

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World Cup isn’t over: Best places to watch the final matches in Atlanta

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World Cup isn’t over: Best places to watch the final matches in Atlanta


FIFA Fan Festival has ended and there are no more World Cup matches in Atlanta, but fans still have plenty of places to catch the final games. Decatur WatchFest, The Battery Atlanta and Cosm are hosting watch parties and immersive viewing experiences for the tournament’s last two matches. Here’s where to watch, when the games kick off and how Atlanta is closing out the FIFA World Cup weekend.



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