Residents Alarmed by Rampant Crime, Squatters at Atlanta Senior Living Facility

Rampant crime and squatter activity in a senior living facility in Atlanta has filled senior citizens, their families, and the community with grave concerns. Veranda at College Town, one of the senior homes that have become a hotspot for crime and illegal stayovers, has put the issue of senior resident safety at the forefront.

The Unsettling Reality of Living at Veranda at College Town

Residents of Veranda at College Town describe the situation as dire and dangerous. Among other complaints, the facility has been flagged by the local community for unauthorized living, crime, unsanitary conditions, and vandalism. Notably, Charles Russell, a resident whose daughter, Renita Callier shared grievances on his behalf, noted significant crime and residents who had no legal right to stay in the building. She mentioned instances of people sleeping without any provided electricity or power and individuals breaching property boundaries without authorization.

Challenges and Steps towards Management by the Facility

The senior vice president of Integral, the company that owns Veranda, Rick White, admitted that the building has faced significant challenges, but assured that measures have been put into place to manage these issues. Steps such as coordinating with the Atlanta Police Department (APD) to address the issues of squatters and promising eviction notices to disruptive households have been initiated. Both measures are seen as promising and critical to ensuring resident safety and maintaining order within the facility.

Calls for Urgent Help by Residents

Furthermore, residents like Charlene Allen and Diane Usher have drawn attention to extensive vandalism and break-ins at the facility. With pleas for someone to inspect the building and take necessary action against the infractions, they have expressed fear and desperation for intervention. Atlanta Police have verified reports about numerous criminal activities, including car theft and property vandalism, further establishing the need for intervention.

Veranda’s Approach to Rectify the Situation

In response to the concerns raised by the residents, Veranda issued a statement outlining its commitment to address the issues including eviction of problematic residents, arresting the squatters, enhancing security, improving maintenance protocols, establishing a 24/7 emergency hotline, and fortifying the entrance gate.

As the facility housing 100 senior residents supported by rent subsidies from Atlanta Housing, Veranda at CollegeTown was supposed to be a safe haven for the seniors. Increasing crime and squatter activities have undeniably created a sense of fear and unease in the community. The city officials have now decided to hold a hearing to address the code enforcement issues on June 18, in a wake to restore peace and safety for the residents. The outcome of the hearing is awaited by all.