Squatters Disrupt Texas Family’s Vacation

Two men have been apprehended after they took over a family’s Texas home while the owners were on vacation, as reported by Houston police.

Connie and Joe Case learned about the situation when relatives alerted them to a suspicious individual at their front door. This man was later identified as 43-year-old Jerry Barrede.

“They consumed all our alcohol, cut up brisket, and spiced it with hot sauce,” Connie stated. “He claimed to know us when he saw our name on the mailbox, and during their visit, our jeep was moved by other intruders.”

The second man, identified as 40-year-old Dustin Gambrin, left the jeep and headed toward a gas station before the police arrived. Both men were arrested within the hour.

Upon returning home, the couple discovered their food and alcohol had been taken, with both clothing missing. Notably, they also found several valuable items—like cash and electronics—were gone.

“They drank everything we had, prepared brisket, and added hot sauce,” Connie reiterated. “It feels like they were planning to stay longer, too.” She mentioned finding some boudin in their freezer, suggesting that a meal might have been on their agenda for that night.

Connie found a woman’s bag in the console of their jeep while cleaning it, and police reported finding drugs associated with the men at the home.

Joe expressed his relief that the house wasn’t severely damaged. He mentioned, “At least they didn’t vandalize the place. It could have been much worse.”

Still, the couple found their toothbrushes had been used, and dirty clothes were left behind. Connie speculated that perhaps one of the men was homeless and had befriended their dogs prior to breaking in.

Both Barrede and Gambrin are now facing several felony charges, including drug possession, burglary, and vehicle misuse. Gambrin’s bond is set at $60,000, while Barrede’s is $35,000.