The latest Airbnb arrest in The Villages is serving as a reminder of the lack of control over short-term rentals, which are not considered compatible with the lifestyle here in Florida’s Friendliest Hometown.
A fugitive from justice wanted in Georgia was arrested earlier this week after a domestic disturbance in the Fussell Villas in the Village of St. Catherine. He had stashed his ex-girlfriend and their child at the Airbnb after their breakup, according to an arrest report from the Wildwood Police Department. Police were called to the villa after a jealous battle over a FaceTiming partner on the woman’s phone. Officers soon discovered the man who presumably set up the rental was wanted on multiple warrants in the Peach State. He was booked without bond at the Sumter County Detention Center, pending extradition back to Georgia.
Airbnbs and other short-term rentals have become a major sore point in The Villages, with neighboring residents frequently complaining about the transient crowds that drift in and out of the homes. Irritated neighbors often cite loud music, parking violations, heavy drinking and excess trash as ongoing concerns regarding Airbnbs and VRBOs in the community…