QUEENS, NY — A Queens man who illegally occupied a vacant single-family home in Flushing and falsely claimed to be a legal tenant has been sentenced to two years in prison, prosecutors announced Thursday.
Brian Rodriguez, 36, of East Flushing, pleaded guilty in January to falsely reporting an incident after forcing his way into a 160th Street home in February 2024. Prosecutors say Rodriguez not only squatted in the property but also rented out rooms to others before being removed and charged.
Key Points
- Brian Rodriguez sentenced to two years for squatting in Flushing home and renting out rooms.
- Homeowner discovered locks changed and unknown tenants living inside.
- Defendant falsely claimed to police he was being unlawfully evicted.
“This sentencing proves my office has prioritized removing those who enter a home without permission,” Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said. “The defendant will now spend two years in prison for his criminal actions and the lawful homeowner has her property back.”
The homeowner, Adele Andaloro, first noticed changed locks on February 17 and saw Rodriguez inside several times. On February 19, he claimed to be leasing the property but offered no supporting details. By February 29, multiple people were staying at the residence without her permission.
When Andaloro attempted to reenter, Rodriguez returned, forced the door open, and falsely told responding police he was a legal tenant being harassed. Andaloro was removed from the home until further investigation confirmed the truth.
Rodriguez received a determinate sentence of two years in prison and five years of post-release supervision from Supreme Court Justice Leigh Cheng.
