From Waller Street to Auburn Avenue, Portsmouth police spent this week dealing with unwelcome houseguests who refused to leave — situations that quickly escalated into legal trouble.
Waller Street Arrest
Officers responded to Waller Street after a caller reported that Austin Reedy, who had been staying at her apartment, refused to hand back a key or leave after collecting his belongings. Police found Reedy shirtless in black jeans and arrested him on an open warrant for criminal damaging.
Reedy was booked into the Scioto County Jail and appeared in court where a judge issued a protection order. He later posted bond and was released, with a pretrial hearing set for October 6.
But the story didn’t stop there. Later that same day, Reedy contacted police himself, saying his ex — the same woman who had sought the protection order — was messaging him on Facebook. He claimed he wanted documentation showing he was not responding. Officers reminded him that under the protection order, he was barred from contact of any kind and advised him to block her.
Auburn Avenue Dispute
Police encountered another squatter situation on Auburn Avenue when a woman said a man she met on Snapchat had been staying with her for a week and a half and refused to leave after an argument. She told officers the man even threatened to call the police and claim she had kidnapped him. Officers arrived and advised the man to leave, which he did without further issue.
The Bigger Picture
Police say disputes like these are becoming more common — often involving temporary living arrangements that sour quickly. What starts as a guest overstaying their welcome can end in arrests, protection orders, or false accusations.
Authorities urge residents to be cautious about who they allow to stay in their homes, especially when the relationship is new or formed online. When conflicts do arise, calling police early can prevent arguments from spiraling into criminal charges.
