Reverend's home sold illegally, identity theft victims often struggle

Reverend Michael Hall faced a shocking situation when he discovered that his home of 30 years had been sold without his knowledge. This occurred because criminals had stolen his identity. His nightmare began in August 2021 when he found a builder working on his property, only to be confronted by another man who claimed to be the new owner. Michael, who bought his modest house in Luton in 1990, had never sold it. After the sale by the fraudsters, he spent the next three and a half years fighting to reclaim his home. He encountered numerous legal challenges, including dealing with squatters. Recently, a judge ruled in his favor, but he still had to wait for the current occupants to leave before he could return. Throughout this ordeal, Michael expressed feelings of anger and sadness but also gained knowledge about the legal system. He now advises others to protect themselves against identity theft. Despite regaining legal ownership, he still has to deal with extensive repairs needed at the house due to the damage caused by the squatters. The police began investigating his case, but no charges have been filed against the identity thieves. Michael’s experience highlights the vulnerability of homeowners, especially those with vacant properties. He now hopes this ordeal serves as a cautionary tale for others.