BETHESDA, Md. — It didn’t belong to them, but a man, his wife, and their three children moved into a $1 million custom-built home in Montgomery County, family dog in tow according to court records.
Now, James Crombie of Kensington is facing a slew of criminal charges stemming from the alleged squatting incident at the luxurious two-story Bethesda home, which includes a gourmet kitchen, marble bathrooms and professional landscaping. His next court date is set for Tuesday.
The Crombie family was unpacking a moving truck at the home on Aug. 30 when the true owner pulled into the driveway, according to charging documents filed in Montgomery County District Court. The homeowner confronted the Crombies and called police, WJLA-TV reported Friday.
James Crombie, 47, told police that the home had been bought for him by a consulting firm, and said he was the principal member of the company, court records said.
But Crombie had no documents to back up his story. Police then forced the Crombies to vacate the home.
The charges against Crombie include attempted theft, burglary and destruction of property. The destruction charge stems from damage to the home that cost more than $1,000 to clean, including stained carpet, broken door locks, a dented ceiling and soiled furniture, court documents say.
Crombie declined to comment when reached at the home he rents in Kensington. His attorney, Rebecca Nitkin, did not respond to a message seeking comment Friday.
Charles Hill, who lives near the home, said the Crombies had introduced themselves to neighbors and were planning some type of party.
“It’s just very bizarre,” he said.
