UPDATE: A growing crisis is unfolding on Humboldt Street in Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles, as abandoned RVs continue to overrun the area, bringing with them a surge of crime and public health hazards. Residents are calling on city officials for immediate solutions as frustration mounts.
RVs lining both sides of the street have become a persistent source of sewage, trash, and alarming crime rates. Among those impacted is Stacy Vierheilig, who operates an industrial building on Humboldt Street filled with toys for underprivileged children. She has fortified her property with security cameras due to rising thefts, including a recent incident where a thief was caught on camera stealing copper wire from her air conditioning unit. “We need help,” Vierheilig stated, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Nearby, Gabriel Perez from St. Vincent de Paul describes the situation as dire, noting that break-ins at their thrift store occur nearly every night. With the RVs occupying the sidewalks, pedestrians are forced to walk in the street, raising safety concerns for both employees and customers. “For every dollar we have spent on security, we are taking away from our mission to serve those in need,” Perez lamented.
In a recent statement, Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez acknowledged the gravity of the situation, calling it a top priority for her office. Earlier this month, she voted against a proposed state law that would facilitate the removal of RVs valued at more than $4,000, arguing that it would not provide the community with realistic solutions. “I just didn’t want to give constituents the false hope that this is going to be the game changer around RVs in our city,” she explained.
Despite her opposition, the resolution passed, and the city is now preparing to implement the new law, set to take effect next year. Mayor Karen Bass‘s office expressed optimism about the law as a “vital tool” to tackle RV encampments across Los Angeles, stating, “This effort demonstrates Mayor Bass’ work to break with the status quo that allowed the homelessness crisis to worsen over decades.”
As the city explores alternatives for RV placements that won’t disrupt the community, residents like Vierheilig are forced to adapt by installing new iron fences and other security measures. The urgency for a solution is palpable, as Humboldt Street continues to suffer from the ongoing impact of this crisis.
The community’s plea for immediate assistance and effective measures to deal with the RV situation remains critical. As developments unfold, residents are hopeful that city leaders will prioritize their safety and well-being.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as solutions are urgently sought for the residents of Humboldt Street.
