Alleged Squatters Arrested, Charged with Trespassing in Chicago Home

Homeowner Sheri Klaas finally regains possession of her property after months-long dispute

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:23pm

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A South Side Chicago homeowner, Sheri Klaas, has had her home reclaimed after months of dealing with alleged squatters who refused to leave. Klaas reported that a man, his girlfriend, and their dog moved into her Roseland property last October, claiming they had a lease, despite not being her tenants. After repeated attempts to get the police to remove the trespassers, Klaas' persistence paid off, and the alleged squatters, Deandre Williams and Kellie White, have now been arrested and charged with criminal trespass.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges homeowners can face when dealing with squatters, and the importance of laws like the Illinois Squatter Law that give property owners more recourse to remove unauthorized occupants. It also raises questions about how police respond to such situations and the balance between property rights and tenant protections.

The details

Klaas said she repeatedly tried to get the police to remove the alleged squatters, but they initially said they don't carry out evictions, only enforce criminal trespass. However, after Klaas' persistent efforts, Williams and White were eventually arrested and charged. Williams faces additional charges including sex offender registry violation, reckless discharge of a firearm, and electronic harassment. The couple allegedly left the home in disarray, with holes, clothing, and pet waste throughout.

  • In October 2025, Klaas says a man, his girlfriend, and their dog moved into her Roseland property, claiming they had a lease.
  • Klaas protested outside her own home in recent months, demanding the alleged squatters leave or be arrested.
  • On January 28, 2026, Williams was arrested and charged, while White is set to appear in court in March.

The players

Sheri Klaas

The homeowner whose property was allegedly occupied by squatters.

Deandre Williams

A 22-year-old man who was arrested and charged with criminal trespass to property, sex offender registry violation, reckless discharge of a firearm, and electronic harassment.

Kellie White

A woman who was arrested and charged with criminal trespass to a residence.

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What they’re saying

“This is my investment, my home. I am losing money every single day.”

— Sheri Klaas, Homeowner (abc7chicago.com)

“When I come to the home, he'll say, 'hey, Sheri, you can't get me out of here.'”

— Sheri Klaas, Homeowner (abc7chicago.com)

What’s next

Williams must remain in custody until his next court date on Friday, while White is set to appear in court in March. Neither has entered a plea yet.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges homeowners can face when dealing with squatters, and the importance of laws like the Illinois Squatter Law that give property owners more recourse to remove unauthorized occupants. It also raises questions about how police respond to such situations and the balance between property rights and tenant protections.