DENVER (KDVR)— A Swansea neighborhood says a problem property on Fillmore Street continues to attract people squatting — despite police calls, city citations, and cleanup efforts.
FOX31 first reported on the home in September, when a neighbor — whose identity we’re keeping private for his safety — described drug activity and trespassing inside the abandoned structure. Since then, both the Denver police and the city’s Department of Community Planning and Development say they’ve taken new action.
When FOX31 returned to the home this Monday, one room was still wide open, with a mattress inside — exposed to the elements and to anyone who might enter. Neighbors say it’s the latest sign of what they call an endless cycle of squatting and cleanups.
“Every time we call the cops, it takes hours for them to get here and then they call and say they couldn’t find anything,” the neighbor said. “We’ve reached out to local politicians, no response — you’ve really been the only person that has responded and actually helped us get some progress.”
Denver police confirm officers have responded to two burglary calls at the property since the original story aired — both times, no one was found on site. Officers say they’ve also tried, without success, to contact the property owner.
City officials have now added the home to Denver’s Neglected and Derelict Building List, giving inspectors authority to clean the property and remove trash. They say nearly $20,000 in penalties and citations have been issued this year, and a show-cause hearing with the owner is next.
In a statement to FOX31, the city said in part:
“We know neighbors are frustrated, and we will continue to inspect the house at regular intervals to ensure it is closed off and safe.”
Neighbors say that while the property looks cleaner than before, enforcement hasn’t been consistent.
“We get a little bit of hope, and it’s just back to it again,” the neighbor said. “We saw the house get cleaned up, which was really nice, but then the squatters just keep coming back — it really is a vicious cycle.”
City leaders are encouraging residents to call 911 if they witness a crime or unsafe activity at the property.
Anthony Sutton is a business strategist and writer with a passion for management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the corporate world, he shares insights on business growth, strategy, and innovation through management-opleiding.org.
