Owner of squatter-infested Hollywood Hills mansions apologizes

The owners of two mansions in the Hollywood Hills taken over by squatters and taggers have apologized and vowed to rectify the situation.

Film producer John Powers Middleton said: “I would like to apologize to the people of Los Angeles, especially my neighbors. What happened to two properties that I own is unacceptable. I'm doing it,” he said. The son of Philadelphia Phillies owner John S. Middleton said in a statement to FOX News Digital.

“I also want to set the record straight. Many articles omit important facts,” Middleton continued.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) previously told Fox News Digital that the Hollywood Hills area had responded to 17 calls in the 1700 block of Sunset Plaza Drive so far this year.

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Police said there were eight calls for a loitering suspect, six calls for suspected theft, and three calls for suspected property damage.

Middleton said in a statement that both homes have property managers and security guards in place, including drive-by security.

“We have captured or thwarted numerous attempted break-ins, including graffiti intruders on both properties. However, the attackers, especially the squatters, have been relentless and our security has been overwhelmed. ” Middleton continued.

Los Angeles City Councilmember Nitya Raman previously told Fox News Digital that she was closely monitoring both homes and was working with the Los Angeles Police Department to address issues within both homes.

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Taggers and squatters targeted another abandoned mansion on Sunset Boulevard. (FOX11 Los Angeles)

“Our office is in close contact with the Los Angeles Police Department and Department of Building Safety regarding the ongoing situation at both 7571 Mulholland Drive and 1754 Sunset Plaza Drive North. Both of these properties are owned by the same person. This is a serious violation of the law,” Raman said in a statement.

Middleton said both properties are currently heavily guarded, armed 24/7, and several painting, construction and other workers are stationed at both homes to work on repairs.

“We are trying our best to secure and repair the house with the intention of selling it as soon as possible. We are disappointed that the vandalism still continues despite working to cover up the graffiti this week.” “Given the persistence of the large number of intruders, it was difficult for them to manage to get in and plaster the newly cleaned walls,” Middleton said.

“What happened on my property was a crime and I hope everyone caught is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. No one in Los Angeles should put up with out-of-control squatters and vandals.” You don’t have to,” Middleton continued.

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The abandoned mansion is legally owned by John Powers Middleton, a film producer known for his work on “The Lego Movie.” (KTTV)

Middleton added that in addition to repairs, the community will be compensated for the costs the homes are causing residents.

“I will also repay all taxpayer funds used to pay for the gate, fence, boarding, and all taxes on my home. To the City of Los Angeles for working with me to correct this horrible situation. I want to thank you,” Middleton said.

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Raman said neither situation is taken lightly and the city is working to combat the issue.

Raman previously said: “This is a public safety issue that has serious implications for both neighbors and the surrounding community. Irresponsible property owners must be held accountable for their property. , otherwise the city will have to take action.”

John Powers Middleton is best known for his work in the films Oldboy (2013) and Manchester by the Sea (2016).

Fox News Digital's Jasmine Baehr contributed to this report.