Residents of Hollywood are expressing frustration and fear over a series of fires they believe are linked to homeless squatters occupying vacant buildings. According to FOX 11, neighbors have reported seeing squatters breaking into properties along North Wilton Place, leading to concerns about safety and property damage. ABC 7 reports that residents say the city isn’t doing enough to help.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) data indicates that an average of 35 fires per day in the city are connected to individuals experiencing homelessness. A specific vacant property in Hollywood has seen six fires since August 2024, as reported by Yahoo News.
Residents have shared videos showing squatters entering the properties, and they describe frequent drug activity and other disturbances. Jennifer Martinez, a local resident, mentioned that squatters have cut fences and tampered with streetlights to access electricity.
Los Angeles City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez’s office is coordinating with the Department of Building and Safety to declare the property a public nuisance. This action could lead to securing the site and holding the property owner accountable. The case is expected to go before the Board of Building and Safety Commissioners in May.
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