Richard and Kristen Craven had inherited an unoccupied house on Goodwood Boulevard near Sharp Road after the passing of Kristen’s parents and were hoping to renovate and sell it. However, their plans changed when Joseph Guerin broke in and took control of the home. He managed to get utilities in his name and even changed the locks. Guerin was arrested for unauthorized entry, but was surprisingly released on bond quite quickly.
Richard expressed his frustration, saying, “He got in there, he saw it was empty, and he decided he’s going to sell it for cash money. And he’s just about accomplished that.” When WBRZ went to the home in April, the Craven’s noticed that the walls, appliances, and furniture were all painted over. Richard was planning to remodel the home before they ran into this issue, now with holes in the walls and poor quality work done, more fixes are necessary.
Sadly, when Richard called police in April they said that the dispute was a civil matter because Guerin had paperwork justifying his stay, however the Craven’s could not view the paperwork in question. “I’ve told them whatever he has, has got to be forged,” Richard shared.
Currently, the couple are trying to remove Guerin for good. Richard emphasized, “I’m not going to let a criminal to go bust in the house and take control. It’s just as simple as that. So it’s more than getting control. He’s going. He’s going to go.”
https://t.co/C3fRzdfOgf: This is how stupid are laws are. Does Louisiana have castle doctrine, that would solve the problem????
— MARINES 1964 (@GrouchyMarine) September 13, 2023
The Cravens are on the search for legal advice and representation to make sure Guerin is removed and does not continue to put strain on them and their once beloved home. Despite the struggles they are facing, they remain focused and determined to get the house back under their control.
I couldn’t imagine being in their situation. I can only hope the right people read their story and they get the advice they need.
Can we Update the law alone