ANGIER – The West Church Street community should soon see some changes after property owners in this community have cooperated with law enforcement to abate several nuisance properties.
A civil nuisance abatement case requested by the City of Angier on behalf of the State of North Carolina has been ongoing for several months. Chapter 19 of the North Carolina General Statutes defines “nuisance” activities and provides for a civil remedy to abate such criminal acts and their detrimental impacts on the community.
“These properties on West Church Street have been a problem for years, draining law enforcement resources and holding a community hostage,” said Angier Police Department Chief Lee Thompson. “This remedy was a result of an outstanding investigation between the Angier Police Department, the community, all property owners and members of the ALE Nuisance Abatement Team.”
All parties were able to reach a settlement agreement. This agreement allowed the properties to remain under current ownership and granted the Angier Police Department full authority to go upon the properties and trespass any violators. A responsible family member will supervise the properties and ensure signs remain posted advising the properties are closed.
“I appreciate the cooperation from these families as we worked to solve this problem and reach a successful resolution for all parties involved,” said Thompson. “I also commend the citizens of this community for partnering with law enforcement to ensure the community returns to a peaceful life.”
“The nuisance abatement law provides a solution to problem locations that strain law enforcement resources and reduce the quality of life for others,” said Scottie Shoaf, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Nuisance Abatement Team. “North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement values the partnership with the Angier Police Department, to bring a permanent resolution to this problem and embrace the positive changes this judgment will facilitate in the community.”
