D.C. Filed Lawsuit Against Ward 8 Apartment Owners
The city alleges the property owners failed to address persistent criminal activity and safety hazards.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Property Crime
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Washington, D.C., has filed a lawsuit against the owners of a 36-unit apartment building in Ward 8. The legal action alleges that the owners allowed persistent criminal activity and safety hazards to continue on the property.
Why it matters
The suit claims the owners failed to implement basic security measures, such as locking entrances, despite numerous warnings from officials. It seeks to force property improvements to ensure safety in the local neighborhood.
The District of Columbia filed the complaint to address violations of the District's Nuisance Act. Officials are seeking a court order to mandate security camera installation, lighting upgrades, and the employment of security personnel.
The players
Marquis Bailey
He is one of the listed owners of the apartment building located in Ward 8.
Dion Robertson
He is an owner of the apartment property currently named in the District's nuisance lawsuit.
1828 Q Street SE Apartments LLC
This corporate entity holds ownership of the apartment building cited in the legal action.
The details
The lawsuit alleges that 1828 Q Street SE Apartments LLC, Marquis Bailey, and Dion Robertson permitted conditions including squatters and trash accumulation. Police reports cited frequent arrests for drug distribution, including the seizure of cocaine and crack cocaine, at the site.
Timeline
May 2026: Police began responding repeatedly to the property.
August 2026: Period of repeated arrests for drug distribution ended.
2026: Over 190 calls for service were placed at the building.
September 22, 2026: The Attorney General announced the lawsuit filing.
Legal Context
The lawsuit follows an ongoing effort by D.C. authorities to utilize the District's Nuisance Act to hold landlords accountable for public safety on private property. This legal strategy mirrors broader municipal trends aimed at curbing neighborhood crime through civil litigation against property owners.
Residents in the surrounding area may see an increase in security presence if the court grants the request for mandatory guards and lighting improvements. The lawsuit serves as a warning to other property owners about the city's intent to enforce safety standards in residential buildings.
The takeaway
Property owners are legally responsible for maintaining basic security measures to prevent their buildings from becoming hubs for criminal activity. Neglecting these duties can lead to court-mandated oversight and significant financial penalties under local nuisance laws.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to combat crime at Property Crime in Washington.
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