Recently, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned to the Civil Unit arrived at the 3300 block of Verde Drive in southeast Colorado Springs to complete a Writ of Restitution (Eviction).

Ahead of their arrival, deputies were told the original party on the lease had moved out; however, numerous unknown parties (likely squatters) had moved in and occupied this apartment.  One of the parties, an adult male, later identified as 34-year-old Erek Jones, was known to be verbally abusive with apartment staff.

Deputies initiated the eviction, knocked, and announced their presence and intent. Once inside the unit, they found four adult males. At the time, three individuals complied with deputies' requests. However, one refused to comply with their directions and stated he “wasn’t leaving.”

Erek Jones attempted to assault one of the deputies physically. During the altercation, an additional adult male who was found in the apartment, 28-year-old Ernie Jones, started to assault deputies as well.

An emergent call for assistance was placed, and resources from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division and the Colorado Springs Police Department arrived and detained the involved individuals.

Erek Jones had a felony (no-bond) Department of Corrections warrant for his arrest. He was booked into the El Paso County Jail for his warrant and charged with 2nd Degree Assault on a Peace Officer (F4), Resisting Arrest (M2), and Obstructing a Peace Officer (M2).

“I am incredibly thankful none of my deputies were seriously injured during this incident," said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. "Additionally, I want to express my gratitude to the Colorado Springs Police Department and our Patrol Division deputies for their swift response and assistance.”

“Unfortunately, there are criminals in our community who ignore the property rights of others, often creating judicial burdens and costly damage to property owners.”

The key to protecting yourself from squatters is preventing them from entering your home in the first place. Homeowners, take security precautions. Lock your doors, utilize a camera system if possible, and have neighbors, members of your neighborhood watch group, or trusted friends check in on your home if you are out of town.

You can also engage law enforcement by requesting vacation checks from your local jurisdiction.

Learn more about vacation checks or neighborhood watch groups by visiting our website: www.epcsheriffsoffice.com

A booking photograph of Erek Jones is attached.