Criminal Law – Fraud – Possession of Residential Real Property

HB 560 makes it a misdemeanor to falsely claim ownership or possession of residential property with intent to defraud others. Property owners can file a sworn affidavit with a sheriff to request removal of someone they believe is fraudulently occupying their property, though law enforcement must allow the occupant to prove lawful possession. Violations carry escalating penalties: up to 90 days in jail or a $500 fine for a first offense, increasing to 1 year or $2,500 for subsequent offenses within two years. The bill clarifies it does not replace existing legal eviction processes under Maryland’s Real Property Article.