San Francisco

Man Accused of Squatting in San Francisco Mansion, Selling Home's Artwork Pleads Not Guilty

A man accused of squatting in a San Francisco mansion and selling the home's pricey artwork plead not guilty Wednesday to a number of theft and burglary charges.

Jeremiah Kaylor admitted to staying at the Presidio Heights mansion in a jailhouse interview with the San Francisco Chronicle, claiming he has obtained legal possession of the home through "squatter's rights." Kaylor also said he is running for president of the United States.

The mansion Kaylor, 39, is accused of squatting in spans 21,000 square feet and was once valued at $21 million. The home was purchased by CNET founder Halsey Minor in 2007. Police said the mansion has sat vacant for years. It was put back on the market in 2013 when Minor filed for bankruptcy.

Police said Kaylor was selling the art inside the home, adding that he sold 11 pieces of art through social media and to pawn shops.

Nine of the 11 paintings have been recovered, and police said they have good leads pointing them to the remaining two.

Police said Kaylor's last known residence was in Dragoon, Arizona.

NBC Bay Area's Pete Suratos and Bay City News contributed to this report.

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