In the case People v. Beard et al (Contra Costa County Case No. MSC01-04450), the City of Richmond prevailed in a Superior Court action brought against the owners and occupants of a Richmond residence which had, for years, been the subject of a Richmond Police Department investigation for drug trafficking and a Richmond Code Enforcement Team action for various violations of the Nuisance Ordinance.

The City sued under three theories: 1) Abatement of a Drug House under the California Health and Safety Code; 2) Abatement of continuing violations under the Richmond Municipal Code, and 3) a cause of action abatement under general nuisance theory.

The Court awarded the City $25,000 in civil penalties and $6,750 in attorney’s fees and costs. The Court also granted injunctive relief requiring the posting of signs warning that no person may use the premises for the selling or use of illegal drugs under order of the Superior Court and that all residents vacate the property. The Court granted the City the right to clean up the premises and board up all means of access for one year.

The City anticipates more of these types of actions in the future. For additional information, contact Adriana Quintero, Assistant City Attorney at 510/620-6509 or email Adriana_Quintero@ci.richmond.ca.us.