Problem Tenants
We recently figured out that one of the regular druggies at Ponce & Boulevard was staying with someone living near 6th & Argonne. This particular female has an extensive criminal history of drug possession (including heroin), petty theft, and prostitution. She has also been known to squat in vacant buildings and construction sites. These kinds of individuals sometimes cause fires, and our experience has shown us that a burned-out house will likely remain a problem property for two to four years. Sgt. Cooper contacted the property owner, who was unaware that his tenant was letting others stay in the unit. Further, he told us of problems he has had in the past with prostitutes staying on his property. He promised to clear out unauthorized tenants immediately.
Meanwhile, we received word from a homeowner a few doors away of an area homeless man living in a garage next door to his home (see last mailbag item). He contacted the out-of-town property owner, who referred him to the property manager. The property manager and tenants all feel that the individual is “harmless” – and this is the first time we have ever fielded a complaint on this individual who has been around the neighborhood for a very long time. The homeless man agreed to leave, and we have had no further reports from that location.
We routinely receive information, though with decreasing frequency, of problem tenants. Most of the time it turns out that the tenant or squatter in question is not authorized to be living there. We have found that property owners are grateful to have been notified by us, and will typically deal with the issue immediately.
Sponsors
Many thanks for our community sponsors! While the majority of our funding comes from residents and small businesses, a significant portion of our neighborhood patrol funds comes from the following sponsors:
