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In an aerial view, workers paint the second of two mansions covered with graffiti, this one vandalized within the past few days according to neighbors, on September 24, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Both mansions, owned by John Powers Middleton, son of the billionaire owner of the Philadelphia Phillies, were unoccupied when squatters moved in to vandalize them. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
John Powers Middleton, a film producer and the son of Philadelphia Phillies owner John S. Middleton, has announced in a statement to Fox News Digital that he is addressing the problem that has plagued his properties for several months.
"I would like to apologize to the people of Los Angeles, and especially to my neighbors. What's happened to the two properties I own is unacceptable, and no matter what caused it, I own the houses," Middleton declared.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) responded to 17 calls for service this year in the 1700 block of Sunset Plaza Drive, where one of the homes is situated. The calls comprised eight possible prowlers in the area, six involving possible burglary, and three for vandalism.
Middleton stated that both homes have security and property management implemented, which included drive-by security. "We have caught or thwarted numerous break-in attempts, including graffiti trespassers at both houses. But the attackers, especially the squatters, have been relentless, and our security people were overwhelmed," Middleton claimed.
L.A. City Councilwoman Nithya Raman told Fox News Digital her office works with the LAPD and the Department of Building and Safety to tackle the issues. "These properties are both owned by the same individual, who is in egregious violation of the law," Raman declared.
As a response to continuing problems, Middleton said he has established armed security 24 hours a day on both properties and hired workers to repair them. He expressed his displeasure at the recurrence of vandals, noting that recently painted walls were damaged.
"What's happened to my property is criminal, and I hope everyone caught will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. No one in Los Angeles should have to put up with squatters and vandalism that are out of control," Middleton said.
The film's producer also pledged to repay the entire amount of taxpayer money used to secure the property and pay outstanding tax bills. Raman has stressed the seriousness of the situation, saying, "This is a public safety issue with serious consequences for both neighbors and the surrounding community."
Middleton is famous for his work in films like "Oldboy" (2013) and "Manchester by the Sea" (2016).
