A new Illinois law going into effect in 2026 will change how police handle squatting situations. Monmouth Police Chief Joe Switzer says the law gives officers clearer authority when property owners call for help.
“If someone runs into the situation where we may have a squatter at a rental property or your home, the police can be called, and as long as the owner provides proof of ownership of the home or there’s a lease that they can provide that shows that are releasing that property or that apartment, the police can immediately remove that person who may be squatting.”
The law is designed to speed up the removal process when police are called.
For the full interview with Chief Switzer, listen here.
