An abandoned multi-million dollar mansion in the Hollywood Hills has become the scene of vandals, who have covered nearly the entire house in fresh graffiti.
Cellphone video from Thursday shows at least one tagger spray-painting the walls of the Mulholland Drive home. Fed-up neighbors said the $6 million home has been vacant for years and falling into disrepair.
“Over the years, there have been a few squatters who have moved in here,” said a neighbor.
Los Angeles police responded to six reports of tagging and trespassing last week. Property records show that the mansion is owned by film producer John Powers Middleton. His father owns the Philadelphia Phillies. Middleton is also believed to own an abandoned mansion on Sunset Plaza Drive, which has also been occupied by squatters.
KCAL News attempted to contact him but received no response.
“I’m tired of living in fear,” said neighbor Pat Johnston.
City officials and the Department of Building and Safety said they are trying to drain the pool, paint the house and somehow repair the fence. The city said the owner has not paid his property taxes for years. Councilwoman Nithya Raman’s office said the city’s orders have been ignored and a lien has been placed on the house.
“This is a public safety issue with serious implications for both the neighbors and the surrounding community,” Raman said. “Irresponsible homeowners like those at 7571 Mulholland Drive need to be held accountable for their properties or face city action.”
