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“It Started with Trespassing. It Ended in Violence.”
"What happened when armed trespassers crossed the line—and how I took back control."
They came onto my land with guns, dogs, and no permission. When I confronted them, things escalated quickly. I was left with broken bones, but I wasn’t backing down. Here’s what happened that day—and the steps I took to make sure it never happens again, and could happen to anyone.
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The Story
Let me take you through a recent incident and what I’ve done since to ensure it never happens again.
One Saturday, my nephew encountered a group of hunters trespassing on our land. They were running dogs from the nearby Holly Shelter Game Land, and those dogs had pushed a deer onto our property. When my nephew confronted them, things took a turn for the worse. They got angry, even though he was entirely in the right.
When I arrived, I blocked the driveway with my truck. I didn’t want them taking off before I understood what was going on. One of the hunters told me I needed to move my vehicle or he’d push it for me. I refused. That’s when they surrounded me. One hit me from the front, another from behind, and a third grabbed my arms to hold me in place. It all happened fast.
I managed to break free, ran to my truck, and called 911. By the time help arrived, the hunters were gone, but I was left with multiple fractures in my face from the attack.
I wasn’t about to let that be the end of the story.
Here’s what I did next to make sure this kind of thing doesn’t happen again:
1. Upgraded Signage
I added more “No Trespassing” signs along the property line, especially in areas where hunters are known to cross. There’s no excuse for someone not knowing they’re on private land.
2. Installed Fencing and a Gate
I put up a secure gate at the main entrance and added fencing in strategic locations. A physical barrier is a strong deterrent, and it also helps keep dogs off the property.
3. Deployed Trail Cameras
I set up trail cameras to monitor activity around the perimeter. They’re great for tracking wildlife, but also valuable for documenting any future trespassing or criminal activity.
4. Connected with Neighbors
I spoke with neighboring landowners to establish better communication, especially during hunting season. If we all stay informed, we can better prevent issues before they start.
5. Added Lighting and a Security System
Motion-activated lights now cover the driveway and gate areas, and I’m investing in a complete security system for 24/7 monitoring. Light and surveillance go a long way toward discouraging bad actors.
6. Studied My Legal Rights
I took time to learn more about North Carolina trespassing laws and property rights. Knowing exactly where you stand legally is just as important as physical protection.
I never want to go through something like that again. However, I’m now better equipped to handle it if I do.
More than 1.3 billion acres of land in the U.S. are privately owned, and property protection is something every landowner should take seriously, whether you manage 1 acre or 1,000. These are straightforward yet powerful steps you can take to secure your land, protect your family, and prevent future conflicts.
Want to be better prepared to defend yourself and your land?
Download this free Self-Defense and Home Protection Guide:
👉 https://personalsecurity.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Know your legal rights as a landowner in North Carolina:
Check out this NC Property Rights Resource:
👉 https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/ByArticle/Chapter_14/Article_22B.pdf
The Lesson: How to Respond When Trespassers Cross the Line
Trespassing can quickly escalate from a minor annoyance to a dangerous confrontation. As a landowner, it’s crucial to know how to protect your property, assert your rights, and prepare for potential threats before they happen.