What are Phrogging Laws in the US?

Every day, we hear stories like “someone was secretly living in my house” or “I found a stranger hiding in my attic.” And you might be surprised to know this… in the U.S., this is a big crime. But the laws around it can be a bit confusing because there’s no law called “phrogging,” but there are serious legal charges that cover it.

In this blog, you’ll learn what are phrogging laws in the US and what victims can legally do if they ever find themselves in this situation.

Relevant Laws That Apply to Phrogging

Even though there’s no specific law named “phrogging,” the act of secretly living in someone’s home without permission breaks several serious laws — and each one can carry heavy consequences. Let’s go over the main ones, one by one.

Trespassing

At its core, phrogging is trespassing — being on someone else’s property without their permission. In most states, this is a criminal offense. The law doesn’t care if the person just walked in through an unlocked door or climbed in through a basement window. If they’re in a place where they’re not supposed to be, it counts.

Trespassing laws cover both private and public property, but a home is a private space — so the violation is more serious. In many states, this can lead to fines, jail time, or both. And if the phrogger stayed for days or weeks, the charge can go from a minor offense to a criminal misdemeanor — or even a felony, especially if the homeowner was inside at the time.

Breaking and Entering

This law kicks in when someone forces or sneaks their way into a home or building with no permission to be there. It doesn’t matter if they didn’t break anything — like smashing a window. Just entering a space unlawfully with intent to stay, hide, or do anything inside can lead to a charge of breaking and entering.

For example, if someone slips in when the door’s unlocked or climbs in through an open window while no one’s watching — that’s still considered “breaking and entering.” The law focuses on the intent and the action, not just the damage. And in cases of phrogging, there’s usually proof that the person went to great lengths to stay hidden, which makes the case stronger in court.

Burglary

Many people think burglary only means stealing. But legally, burglary is when someone enters a building without permission and plans to commit any kind of crime inside. That crime can be as simple as living there, using appliances, or accessing the internet. In most states, burglary is a felony.

If someone lives secretly in a home, uses the kitchen, takes showers, eats food, or even goes through belongings, those actions may be enough to count as burglary. 

The law looks at “intent to commit a crime” once someone is inside — and courts often view phrogging as pre-planned. So even if nothing is stolen, the person can still be charged and possibly jailed for burglary.

Invasion of Privacy

This law protects people from being watched, recorded, or having their personal space violated — especially in places like bedrooms, bathrooms, or changing areas. Phroggers often stay hidden for long periods and might observe the homeowners without being noticed. That alone can lead to an invasion of privacy charge.

If they move through private rooms, go through personal items, or watch people during vulnerable moments, it’s not just unsettling — it’s illegal. 

In some states, if they set up any cameras, it could turn into a felony. Even without recording anything, just being present and seeing people without their knowledge is enough for serious legal action.

Property Damage or Theft

In many phrogging cases, the person living in the home causes some kind of damage — whether it’s small (like a broken lock) or more serious (like damaging floors, walls, or plumbing). This kind of damage can lead to more charges. Even if it wasn’t intentional, the homeowner can press charges or sue for the costs.

And in September 2019, James and Brittany Campbell returned to their Honolulu home after a trip to find it in disarray. 

A stranger, 23-year-old Ezequiel Zayas, had broken in and been living there during their absence. The couple discovered extensive property damage — their belongings were scattered, and disturbing messages were left throughout the house. 

Zayas had used their personal items, consumed their food, and even left notes detailing bizarre intentions toward the family.

The Campbells immediately contacted the police, and Zayas was arrested and charged with burglary. The incident left the family traumatized and highlighted the severe impact a phrogger can have on a homeowner’s sense of safety and security. 

This case shows the importance of promptly addressing unauthorized occupancy and reinforces that such actions are taken seriously by law enforcement.

What Can Victims Do Legally?

So now, you’re aware of phrogging Laws in the US. But discovering that someone has been secretly living in your home is terrifying. And it’s a safety threat. 

Once the shock fades, the big question becomes — what can you actually do about it?

Call the Police Immediately

The very first thing you should do is get law enforcement involved. Don’t try to confront the person yourself — it’s not safe, especially if you don’t know what their intentions are. Dial 911, report the situation, and let the police handle it.

Once officers arrive, they can remove the person from your home and begin documenting the case. If the phrogger is still present, they’ll likely be arrested on the spot for trespassing, breaking and entering, or worse — depending on what they did while inside.

File a Formal Police Report

Even after the person is removed, you’ll want a full police report. This is important for a few reasons.

• It becomes official evidence if you want to press charges or sue for damages.
• It helps law enforcement track similar cases if the same person has done this before.
• It gives you a record for insurance claims, especially if anything was damaged or stolen.

Be as detailed as possible. Mention what was missing, damaged, or suspicious. Take photos of everything, and don’t throw anything away until it’s documented.

Press Charges

Depending on the situation, the person can be charged with multiple crimes — from trespassing and burglary to stalking, harassment, or even identity theft. As a victim, you have the right to press charges and ensure the case goes through the court system.

This step makes sure they don’t do it to someone else. Prosecutors will look at the full picture: how long they were there, what they did, and whether they’ve done this before.

Sue for Damages (If Needed)

If the phrogger caused property damage, stole personal belongings, or left you with major cleanup costs, you can file a civil lawsuit. This can help you recover the money you spent fixing or replacing things. You’ll need. 

• A copy of the police report
• Repair estimates or receipts
• Photos or video of the damage
• Proof of missing items (if possible)

Even if the person doesn’t have much money, a court can still issue a judgment — and in some cases, wages can be garnished later.

Ask for a Restraining Order (If You Feel Unsafe)

If the phrogger was someone you knew — like a former tenant, friend, or even a distant relative — and you fear they might come back, you can request a restraining order. This legally stops them from coming near your home again.

Even if they didn’t hurt you physically, the law still considers your fear and mental stress. Courts can and do issue protective orders in these cases.

Final Thoughts

Phrogging is a crime. If someone lives in your home without permission, it’s illegal — no matter how they got in or how long they stayed.

There’s no law called “phrogging,” but phrogging laws in the US are covered through trespassing, burglary, breaking and entering, and other serious charges. People who do this can get arrested, fined, or sent to jail.

If this happens to you, call the police, file a report, and take legal action. Don’t stay quiet — the law is there to protect you.

FAQs

Is phrogging actually illegal in the US?

Yes, phrogging is illegal. Even though the word isn’t in law books, the act breaks laws like trespassing, burglary, and invasion of privacy. Anyone caught secretly living in someone’s home without permission can be arrested and charged under existing criminal laws.

Can someone go to jail for phrogging?

Yes. Jail time depends on the charges and the state, but most phrogging cases involve serious crimes. If the person damaged property, stole items, or stalked the homeowner, they could face months or even years in prison, especially if it’s not their first offense.

What should I do if I find someone phrogging in my home?

Call the police right away. Do not try to handle it alone. Once the person is removed, file a report and press charges. Also, document everything for legal and insurance reasons. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.

Can I sue a phrogger for damages?

Yes, you can take civil action against a phrogger. If they damaged your home, stole belongings, or caused emotional distress, you can sue for repair costs, stolen items, or mental stress. A police report and photos will help your case in court.

Are there different phrogging laws in each state?

Yes, laws vary by state, especially when it comes to trespassing and burglary charges. Some states treat it as a misdemeanor, while others charge it as a felony. But no matter the state, secretly living in someone’s home is always against the law.