A vacant Los Angeles mansion owned by film producer John Powers Middleton, the son of Philadelphia Phillies owner John S. Middleton, was recently vandalized with graffiti for the second time. The multi-story property in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood has been unoccupied for years, attracting squatters and causing safety concerns for the neighborhood. LA Councilmember Nithya Raman confirmed that Middleton owns both this property and another nearby, and stated that the owner was in violation of the law. The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety is working to address security issues at the properties.
The vacant mansion has been the scene of violent incidents involving squatters in recent years, including an armed man illegally living there with his dog in January 2022. Despite efforts to clean up the property and prevent squatters, graffiti and other issues persist. Middleton, known for his work as a film producer, has faced criticism for neglecting the properties and failing to address safety concerns. In October 2022, the city mandated that Middleton build a fence around the property, but when he did not comply, city workers built it themselves.
The mansion, built in 2008, features luxurious amenities such as six bedrooms, a screening room, indoor and outdoor pools, and a wine room. Middleton reportedly purchased the property in 2012 and has faced multiple notices from the Department of Building and Safety regarding its upkeep. The ongoing issues surrounding the mansion highlight the challenges of property ownership in Los Angeles and the responsibility that comes with maintaining vacant homes.
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