Hi Brightwood:
In March 2024, the DC Council passed the Secure DC omnibus bill. Part of the bill includes Drug-Free Zones, which were proposed by Mayor Bowser and allow MPD to temporarily cordon off problematic city blocks for five to seven days. Anyone congregating to use, buy, or sell drugs in the Drug-Free Zone could be arrested if they refuse to leave.
In August 2024 Georgia & Sheridan was declared a Drug-Free Zone along with Georgia & Tuckerman & Rittenhouse. I worked with Commander Lavenhouse at 4D for months to get this first Drug-Free Zone approved and I thank her for her work and commitment to improving safety in Brightwood. Today, October 23, 2024, Georgia Ave from Tuckerman to Rittenhouse and other nearby streets were once again declared a Drug-Free Zone. This area is marked by orange signs that are posted to light posts (see attached). The Drug-Free Zone expires on October 28, 2024. I thank Commander Lavenhouse, our 4D Police Officers for their dedication to working to deter criminal activity.
I also thank the many neighbors who regularly call me when they see groups of men selling and using drugs around Georgia & Sheridan. When I receive these calls, I then call 911 and report the activity which creates a documented record of illegal behavior which helps Commander Lavenhouse get approval for Drug-Free Zones. I thank everyone for working together to reduce crime in Brightwood .
Lastly, on October 13, 2024, the cannabis store located on the corner of Georgia & Sheridan was shut down by Commander Lavenhouse and 4D MPD! The store was first named Green Magic and then changed its name to Coupons R US (see attached photo). This business was not properly licensed per the Alcohol, Beverage, Cannabis Administration (ABCA) and was ordered to close. I worked with the office of CM Lewis-George, ABCA, and Commander Lavenhouse on closing this business and I sincerely thank all of them for working with me to improve conditions on Georgia Ave and in Brightwood.
Commissioner Kim Patterson
ANC 4A05, Brightwood Neighborhood
