Ocean City man charged after reportedly living in unoccupied beach house

An Ocean City man is facing charges, after he was apparently found squatting in a home.

Ocean City Police say on January 4 around 3:10 PM, Officers responded to a home on 17th Street, for reports of a burglary. The home was apparently supposed to be unoccupied for the winter, but the owner had apparently recently noticed an increase in the homes’ utility bills. Police say the owner then went to check on the house, and found someone inside. According to the report, 59-year-old Howard Shaffer had been living in the home.

Police say about a month later, on February 2, the Maryland State Police Fugitive Apprehension Team located Shaffer, and turned him over to OCPD. He was then charged with burglary in the first, third and fourth degree, theft less than $1,000 and malicious destruction of property valued less than $1,000. After an initial appearance with the Maryland District Court Commissioner, Shaffer was released after posting $15,000 bond.

Ocean City Police says they are encouraging homeowners with unoccupied properties in Ocean City to sign up for the Residential Security Check program. Officers will check on the home periodically to ensure that everything is as the homeowner said it would be, safe and secure. To sign up, visit the OCPD website or contact the Ocean City Police Department at 410-723-6610.