Lawsuit Filed Against Pico-Robertson Motel Over Alleged Drug, Prostitution Activity

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — A narcotics abatement lawsuit was filed against a Pico-Robertson neighborhood motel in an effort to crack down on drug activity in the area, Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer announced Friday.

Jin Chern Shiang and Xin Chun Corporation, which owns the Grand Motel at 1479 S. La Cienega Blvd., were named as defendants in the complaint that was filed Wednesday and seeks an injunction prohibiting narcotics and other criminal activity on the property.

The complaint also calls for physical and managerial improvements to the property, including an Internet-connected video monitoring system, improved lighting, and armed, licensed security guards.

The lawsuit describes the Grand Motel as a 19-unit building within a half-mile of four schools and daycare centers, two churches and a senior center.

Feuer alleges the property has served as a host for the sale and use of narcotics, as well as pimps and prostitutes who use the property as a base for illegal activity, since at least 1997. Hundreds of arrests have been made at the property, which has also been the target of numerous calls for service to the LAPD and frequent community complaints, Feuer said.

The property owner has previously been cited by the Department of Building and Safety for Code violations and has already been publicly reproached by Feuer.

"As we continue to see, a single property can erode the quality of life for an entire neighborhood. All property owners have responsibilities to their communities," Feuer said.