Birmingham sues Norwood apartments as ‘drug-related nuisance’
Birmingham Sues Norwood Apartment Complex Over Drug-Related Nuisance
The City of Birmingham has filed a lawsuit against Norwood Plaza Apartments, labeling it a "drug-related nuisance." Filed on May 23 in Jefferson County Circuit Court, the action targets both the property management company, Tutwiler Realty, Inc., and the complex itself, seeking to declare it a public nuisance under Alabama law. The city cites a lengthy history of drug activity and threats to public safety at the property located at 1717 32nd Place North.
City Attorney Nicole E. King stated that the complex has been a "consistent source of danger," highlighting the management’s failure to address ongoing illegal activities despite repeated warnings. The petition details numerous drug seizures, including large quantities of substances such as cocaine and methamphetamine, as well as firearms recovered through police interventions from December 2023 to April 2025. The city asserts that this pattern has placed significant strain on city resources and poses risks to local residents, schoolchildren, and nearby businesses.
To mitigate the issues, the city is requesting the court to impose strict measures, including the hiring of 24/7 security, implementing surveillance systems, and possibly placing rental income under a court-appointed trustee. Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin emphasized the city’s commitment to public safety and community revitalization, asserting that the residents deserve a safe environment to thrive. An emergency hearing has been requested to expedite the legal process.
Read the complete article here: https://www.al.com/news/2025/05/birmingham-sues-norwood-apartments-as-drug-related-nuisance.html
