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14/7/25 8:13 pm
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A landlord who destroyed his tenant’s home following an illegal eviction has been ordered to pay her £53,000 in damages.
The property in Vincent Gardens, Sheerness, had been part of an ongoing dispute between the tenant and landlord Louis Scudder and culminated in a 24-hour stand-off with police.
Scudder, 53, had reportedly chained the gates, blocked access and intimidated her – forcing her out with barely any belongings, reports Kent Online. He had also been seen throwing items in the street and causing damage.
He was bound to keep the peace for at least 12 months. The court also granted the tenant an injunction order in August last year and asked him to return the keys to give her access but instead, he returned to the property and caused more problems.
Scudder began to destroy the house – tearing off bricks from the roof and smashing windows – leaving the property uninhabitable, while police attempted to negotiate with him. Witnesses live-streamed the incident on social media for five hours.
At Sevenoaks Magistrates Court, the prosecution offered no evidence for the burglary charge, and a formal not guilty verdict was entered. However, Scudder pleaded guilty to criminal damage and was fined £80.
In July, Scudder admitted liability for unlawful eviction at a pre-trial review and application hearing. The court awarded the tenant £14,760 for lost belongings and £38,250 for the 153 days she was left homeless. She was eventually able to regain access, although the home required extensive repairs.
Duncan Lewis Solicitors, which handled the civil case, say the tenant had lived there since 1999. Caseworker Johnley Videña adds: “Taking matters into your own hands not only violates tenants’ rights but can result in serious financial penalties and legal consequences. This case is a stark warning: always respect due process.”
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