Hazel Crest Homeowners Confront Squatters Demanding Cash to Vacate

In Hazel Crest, Illinois, homeowners Keashun May and Macquline King encountered a distressing situation when squatters occupied their property and demanded payment to vacate.

The duo had plans to sell their home but were alerted by their realtor that individuals, accompanied by two dogs, had moved in without permission.

Upon confronting the occupants, a man identified as Lashawn Rankine claimed he had paid $4,000 in cash to rent the home and presented a lease agreement.

Despite the homeowners' insistence, Rankine refused to leave, prompting them to contact the police.

Law enforcement informed May and King that the matter was civil, not criminal, due to the presented lease.

Consequently, the homeowners faced the prospect of a lengthy eviction process.

In an attempt to expedite the removal, the squatters requested money to vacate.

After negotiations, May and King agreed to a cash-for-keys arrangement, paying $2,700 to regain possession of their property.

Subsequently, they discovered that Rankine was allegedly involved in similar squatting incidents in Tinley Park and South Holland.

Hazel Crest Police Chief Mitchell R. Davis III acknowledged the challenges posed by current laws, which prevent immediate removal of squatters presenting lease agreements.

However, with new information linking Rankine to multiple cases, authorities are collaborating with the Cook County State's Attorney to investigate potential charges such as extortion or fraud.

In response to such incidents, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1563 into law in July 2025.

This legislation clarifies that civil eviction procedures do not restrict law enforcement from enforcing trespassing laws, allowing for more immediate action against unauthorized occupants.

The law, effective January 1, 2026, aims to provide property owners with quicker recourse in similar situations.

Homeowners are advised to remain vigilant, collaborate with neighbors to monitor properties, and consider installing surveillance systems to detect unauthorized entries promptly.

As of now, investigations are ongoing, and no formal charges have been filed against Rankine in connection with the Hazel Crest incident.

Authorities continue to gather evidence to determine the appropriate legal actions.