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Boing Boing

Oakland’s sword-wielding “squatter remover” claims “castle doctrine” as cover

Jason Weisberger
Oct 02, 2025
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Oakland’s housing crunch has spawned the “vigilante eviction.” Meet ASAP Squatter Removal, the sword-toting outfit utilizing the “castle doctrine” and rapid move-ins to forcibly remove people desperate for housing.

“The average squatter,” says James Jacobs, “has no melee experience.”

No familiarity with katana swords or other bladed weaponry. No training …

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