A Nevada homeowner returned from a three-week vacation to find someone had apparently been squatting inside their Lake Tahoe home, eating their food, wearing their clothes, and leaving behind clues that investigators hope will help identify a person of interest.

Investigation Underway

The homeowner reported the discovery to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office on June 5 after returning home. Investigators said evidence inside the residence indicated someone had been staying there while the owner was away, and the homeowner also reported their birth certificate was missing.

During the investigation, deputies recovered a wallet containing a Visa debit card issued to Clarence Zillman, along with a Safeway receipt for the purchase of two packs of Camel cigarettes. Investigators later obtained surveillance video from the Safeway at the Round Hill Shopping Center showing the individual who made the purchase associated with the recovered receipt.

According to the sheriff’s office, the person captured in the surveillance image was wearing a shirt and hat the homeowner identified as their own. Deputies later recovered the shirt inside the residence, though the hat remains missing.

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has released the surveillance image and is asking anyone who recognizes the individual or has information about the investigation to contact Investigator JT Davis at 775-586-7253. The investigation remains active.

Concerns Over Squatting

The incident highlights concerns about unauthorized occupants targeting homes that may be left vacant for weeks or months at a time. Experts warn some squatting incidents can involve more than simply occupying a vacant home.

Former Los Angeles Police Department Lt. Moses Castillo recently told Fox News Digital that some squatting cases have involved alleged identity theft, forged property documents, and other criminal activity beyond unlawful occupancy.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.