Homeless crisis blamed for brazen drug use, graffiti in Tarzana

Residents in Tarzana are raising public safety concerns involving drugs and vandalism they believe are tied to the homeless crisis. 

Community members told KTLA Monday that they have witnessed brazen drug use and vandalism taking place out in the open, much of it near Reseda Boulevard and Bessemer Street.

One resident shared a photo of what appears to be drug use in broad daylight near neighborhood homes, but concerns are also growing over graffiti, sanitation and fires, including one that recently broke out in a nearby encampment.

“I’m afraid to walk in my neighborhood. I used to go out for morning walks around the neighborhood. I’m afraid to do that at this point. I’ve considered selling my house,” said one resident who put together a group of about 70 neighbors to figure out how to make things better.

The resident said he has met with his councilman and a senior lead officer with the Los Angeles Police Department but was told there is some gray area regarding jurisdiction and what can be enforced.

Nearby train tracks and a Metro station, along with a Tiny Home village are believed by some to be responsible for at least part of the problem.

The residents are asking for at least more patrols to help deter any criminal activity.