BREAKING: A legal showdown in Sunnyside has ended with a judge dismissing a squatter’s claim, allowing Glory Gendrett and her family to retain their home built by their father in the 1940s. This urgent update comes after a prolonged dispute over the property located on Clover Street near Scott, which has been in the family for generations.
The court ruled against Marquise Busby, who claimed he had lived in and maintained the property since 2014 and sought ownership through adverse possession. The ruling was confirmed after local media highlighted the case, prompting legal representation for Gendrett’s family.
In a significant development, Houston attorney Dennis McQueen stated, “The court’s ruling clarified the property’s ownership.” Just over a month ago, the judge issued a final judgment declaring that Busby has no rights to the property. With the claim dismissed, Gendrett’s family can now address overdue property taxes and prepare the house for potential sale.
The concept of adverse possession allows individuals to claim ownership of a property if they occupy it openly and continuously without the true owner’s permission for a specified period. In Texas, this duration can range from three to ten years, depending on specific circumstances.
As legal changes unfold in Texas, new measures have been introduced to expedite the process for property owners reclaiming their homes from unauthorized occupants. Senate Bill 1333, effective September 1, 2025, allows owners to submit an affidavit for immediate removal of squatters, while Senate Bill 38, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, aims to streamline justice court timelines for resolving such cases.
Experts warn that despite these reforms, some tenants could be mistakenly classified as squatters. Legal advocates urge property owners to closely monitor vacant properties and stay current on taxes to prevent adverse possession claims.
For Gendrett and her family, this victory signifies not just the retention of their home but a relief from the anxiety of ongoing legal disputes. The case serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of property vigilance and legal preparedness in safeguarding family legacies.
As the situation continues to develop, homeowners across Texas are encouraged to stay informed about their rights and the evolving legal landscape surrounding property ownership.
