Eatonville Landlord Faces Scrutiny for Evicting Deceased Tenant’s Son

In Orange County, Florida, Nia Williams-Brown, a resident of Eatonville, is advocating for a 21-year-old individual whom she alleges was wrongfully evicted from a residence. The individual in question is Andrew Scott, the son of the well-known local handyman, Jimmy Scott.

Tragically, Andrew celebrated his 21st birthday on Sunday, June 9, the same day his father succumbed to cancer. Williams-Brown shared that Jimmy Scott’s dying wish was for his son to be cared for and not left homeless.

Since his father’s passing, Andrew Scott has reportedly been grappling with an overwhelming crisis, as mentioned by Williams-Brown. Scott himself expressed his frustration via text message, denouncing the illegal eviction, unauthorized entry into the house, and changing of locks without proper legal justification.

The property where the Scott family resided is managed by Morehouse Realty, under the leadership of Alvin Moore, Jr., a former member of Eatonville’s town council. Moore contended that Andrew Scott was not listed on the lease, and Jimmy Scott had explicitly instructed that his son should not be allowed in the house in his absence.

According to Moore, Andrew had indicated his intention to vacate the premises, prompting Moore to change the locks within 48 hours of Jimmy Scott’s demise. Despite Moore’s assertion that his actions were in accordance with the lease agreement and legal protocols, Andrew Scott maintains that he was present in the house when instructed to leave by Moore.

Attorney Raymond Traendly weighed in on the matter, highlighting Florida’s Landlord Tenant Statute, which mandates a 60-day waiting period after the last remaining tenant’s death before a landlord can take possession of the property. Changing locks within 48 hours, as done in this case, could potentially result in a wrongful eviction lawsuit, with the landlord liable for damages, attorney fees, and three months’ rent.

The contentious situation involving Andrew Scott underscores the pressing need for accountability and support for vulnerable members of the community, as emphasized by Williams-Brown. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by individuals navigating housing disputes in the region.