City of Fort Worth files lawsuit seeking nuisance designation for Central Motel over alleged persistent criminal activity

Fort Worth, Texas – The City of Fort Worth has taken legal action against the property known as the Central Motel, asking a court to declare it a common nuisance because of what officials describe as ongoing criminal activity at the location.

The lawsuit was filed under Chapter 125 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code and targets the property located at 5800 E. Lancaster Ave. City officials said the legal action is part of a broader effort to improve public safety, reduce crime, and hold property owners responsible when repeated criminal activity occurs on their property.

According to the City, the lawsuit seeks a court order declaring the motel a common nuisance and requiring changes intended to reduce crime, strengthen property management, and improve security.

City cites repeated police responses and alleged criminal activity

Fort Worth officials said the lawsuit follows numerous police responses to the property during the past year.

According to court filings, the reported incidents include allegations involving prostitution, narcotics offenses, weapons violations, and a homicide investigation.

Under Chapter 125 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, municipalities may ask a court to intervene when certain types of criminal activity repeatedly occur at a property and the owner allegedly fails to take reasonable action to stop or reduce those problems.

City Manager Jay Chapa said Fort Worth intends to use every legal option available to protect neighborhoods from properties associated with ongoing criminal activity.

“Chronic criminal activity that threatens our neighborhoods will not be ignored,” City Manager Jay Chapa said. “Property owners have a responsibility to operate their properties in a manner that does not allow persistent criminal activity. The City will use every lawful tool available to protect our residents, support our police officers and hold property owners accountable.”

As part of the lawsuit, the City is requesting that the court impose conditions designed to eliminate or significantly reduce criminal activity at the motel. Those conditions could include improved security measures and changes to the way the property is managed.

Officials noted that Chapter 125 also gives the court authority, when appropriate, to order a property closed for as long as one year if it determines such action is necessary.

However, city officials emphasized that the lawsuit represents only the beginning of the legal process.

The Central Motel remains open and operating while the case moves through the court system. The City stated it will continue following all legal procedures as the matter progresses.

Fort Worth officials said nuisance abatement remains one part of the City’s larger strategy for improving neighborhood safety. Along with legal action, the City works with the Fort Worth Police Department, the Fort Worth City Council, and local residents to identify and address properties where repeated criminal activity has become a concern.

Officials also encouraged community members to continue reporting locations where ongoing criminal activity may be occurring so that appropriate investigations can be conducted.

The City said it remains committed to reducing crime, strengthening neighborhoods, and improving the quality of life for residents through enforcement efforts and cooperation with law enforcement and the community.