A shocking and disturbing incident unfolded in Smyrna, Georgia, where a group of seven burglars were accused of squatting in and looting the home of a deceased man. The homeowner, Robert Westbrook, aged 71, was found dead in his bathtub by Cobb County Police during a wellness check. What made the discovery even more horrifying was the fact that Westbrook’s body had been in a state of severe decomposition, described as mummification, for around three months.
Detectives investigating the scene found evidence that someone had been living in Westbrook’s home during the time his body lay undiscovered. The house was ransacked, with drawers overturned and the master bedroom in disarray. However, there were also signs that the squatters had been actively living there, such as regularly taking out the trash and keeping the appearance of normalcy.
The situation escalated when a neighbor reported seeing individuals on Westbrook’s property the day after the initial wellness check. Police arrived to find four suspects attempting to flee with Westbrook’s belongings, including his money, electronics, and car. The burglars had even used Westbrook’s credit cards and checks to make purchases and play the lottery at a gas station.
All seven suspects were known to each other, with some having prior criminal records in Cobb County. Detective Daniel Goduto expressed disbelief at the lack of morality displayed by the burglars, who not only broke into the home but also chose to live there after discovering Westbrook’s deceased body.
Neighbors were shocked to learn of Westbrook’s death and the subsequent looting of his home by the squatters. The overgrown vegetation surrounding the property may have made it an easy target, as it appeared abandoned from the outside. Goduto urged the public to check on elderly neighbors and report any suspicious activity to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The disturbing case of Robert Westbrook’s death and the subsequent actions of the burglars highlights the importance of community vigilance and compassion. It serves as a reminder to look out for those around us and take action to ensure their well-being and safety.
