Sovereign citizen convicted of squatting in Memphis mansion
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) – A self-described sovereign citizen who claims she is not bound by U.S. laws has been convicted of illegally taking control of a $3 million foreclosed mansion in Memphis.
The Shelby County district attorney’s office says 35-year-old Tabitha Gentry was found guilty Thursday of theft of property over $250,000 and aggravated burglary. She is scheduled to be sentenced May 26.
Gentry, who is already serving a 14-year-sentence for assaulting two police officers, has identified herself as Abka Re Bey of the Sovereign Citizen Moorish National Movement. She repeatedly challenged the court’s authority and refused to cooperate with her attorney.
Gentry moved into the vacant mansion in March 2013, filing documents with the register’s office declaring herself the owner of the property.
