Fort Worth files nuisance abatement lawsuit against E. Lancaster motel

The City of Fort Worth has filed a lawsuit under Chapter 125 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code seeking to have the property located at 5800 E. Lancaster Ave. (Central Motel) declared a common nuisance based on allegations of persistent criminal activity.

The lawsuit is intended to address chronic criminal behavior at the property. Through the lawsuit, the City is asking the court to declare the property a common nuisance and issue a permanent injunction requiring measures designed to reduce criminal activity, improve management practices and enhance security.

"Chronic criminal activity that threatens our neighborhoods will not be ignored," City Manager Jay Chapa said. "Property owners have a responsibility to operate their properties in a manner that does not allow persistent criminal activity. The City will use every lawful tool available to protect our residents, support our police officers and hold property owners accountable."

According to the lawsuit, the Fort Worth Police Department has responded to numerous reported incidents associated with the property over the past year. Alleged criminal activity includes prostitution, narcotics offenses, weapons violations and a homicide investigation. Chapter 125 authorizes municipalities to seek court intervention when qualifying criminal activity habitually occurs at a property and the owner fails to take reasonable steps to reduce it.

As part of the lawsuit, the City is requesting court-ordered conditions to abate criminal activity. Under Chapter 125, the court also has the authority, if warranted, to order closure of the property for up to one year.

The lawsuit marks the beginning of the legal process. The property remains open and operational while the case proceeds through the courts, and the City will continue to follow all legal requirements throughout the process.

Nuisance abatement is one component of the City's comprehensive strategy to reduce crime, improve neighborhoods and enhance public safety. The City works closely with residents, the Fort Worth Police Department and the Fort Worth City Council to address persistent problem properties and encourages community members to continue reporting locations that may warrant further investigation.

Photo: Senior Assistant City Attorney Benjamin Sampract, Police Chief Eddie Garcia and Police Officer Jentry Cotten answer reporters’ questions at a news conference on Tuesday.

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