Airbnb Stay Ends in Arrest for Trespassing and Trash Tossing
A short-term rental in Belleview turned into a long-term headache for deputies on January 2, when Benjamin Garvey, an Airbnb guest, turned an extended stay into an unwanted showdown.
The drama began earlier in the day when Garvey, renting a room at 11601 SE 74th Terrace, clashed with the homeowner’s mother over, of all things, spitting in the sink. The dispute escalated, leading to an unusual display of defiance: Garvey reportedly hurled trash onto the homeowner’s vehicle and lawn, storming off before deputies arrived.
But Garvey wasn’t done. According to Marion County deputies, he returned hours later to continue his “performance art” of trash tossing, prompting neighbor Cory Carter to alert authorities. Carter described a scene involving banging on doors and windows, with a generous dose of littering. Deputies arrived to find garbage strewn across the lawn and broken bins that would make Oscar the Grouch cringe.
Attempts to reason with Garvey proved futile. Barricaded in his Airbnb bedroom, he ignored knocks, calls, and even the homeowner’s direct trespass warnings. Despite blasting music, Garvey couldn’t drown out the deputies’ commands—or their eventual entrance, courtesy of a key from the homeowner.
Once inside, the standoff escalated. Deputies reported Garvey assuming a “fighting stance,” warning that they’d have to “get physical” to arrest him. They obliged. After a brief but tense struggle, which included a taser drive-stun for motivational purposes, Garvey surrendered, declaring, “I give up.”
The aftermath revealed more than just trash talk. Damages included a broken door handle, trashed bins, and a cleaning bill that could rival the rental fee. Garvey was arrested on charges of trespassing after warning, criminal mischief, and resisting arrest without violence. His stay in Marion County Jail will undoubtedly feature fewer amenities than his Airbnb.
As for the homeowner? She may think twice before clicking “accept” on her next booking request.
