1434 Swann Street, N.W. is a property that has long presented a drug nuisance as well as disorderly conduct problems. A particularly frightening recurring problem was that the tenants released their large dogs in the street without leashes causing a number of requests to Animal Control for assistance. After the previous owner passed away, the property was left to the owner’s nine children. The U.S. Attorney’s Office contacted these owners and informed them that this property was being used for illegal purposes and had other nuisance issues. Subsequently, all 9 owners agreed to sell the property. The property was sold in July 2003. As expected, the nuisance problems disappeared.

Several neighbors stated that since the property has been abated, there has been a tremendous improvement in the quality of life for everyone in the area. The drug activity at the site has ended, neighbors no longer have to be afraid of the unleashed dogs and the birds can be heard rather than the frequent yells of profanities. The neighbors are once again outside of their homes sweeping their walks and enjoying their community.