NCJ Number
178224
Journal
Law Enforcement Quarterly Volume: 28 Issue: 1 Dated: Spring 1999 Pages: 35-37
Date Published
1999
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Because the Oceanside Police Department (OPD) recognizes that when windows remain broken in a home, a message is sent that no one in the home cares, the OPD is using nuisance laws to abate deteriorating neighborhood properties based on the general principle of disallowing the use of a property that interferes with someone else's property.
Abstract
A property is classified as an abatement project when there is a clear indication that significant problems are causing the neighborhood to deteriorate. An abatement action stops a nuisance without a judicial procedure and authorizes public employees to require property owners to correct conditions that cause the nuisance or to make necessary improvements to stop the nuisance. The OPD's Neighborhood Enhancement Team (NETWork) defines the problem in a particular neighborhood as a first step in helping residents deter crime, beautify their community, and increase their safety. OPD NETWork officers also intensify their patrol of identified problem areas. In the typical case, educating property owners about the nuisance is enough to make most comply with the law. Necessary improvements are usually made within a month, allowing property owners to avoid the formal abatement process. A civil action can be instituted if the property owner does not voluntarily make recommended changes. OPD NETWork officers work in conjunction with the Oceanside City Attorney and with public works, planning, and building departments. Nuisance abatement is viewed as an effective approach because it encourages citizens to take responsibility for their actions. 4 photographs