The city of Fort Worth has initiated legal proceedings against the Central Motel, located at 5800 E. Lancaster Avenue, alleging the property is a hub for ongoing illegal behavior. The lawsuit asks a judge to declare the site a common nuisance under Chapter 125 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code and to issue a permanent injunction requiring the property owner to implement specific measures to reduce crime and improve security.
City officials stated that the legal action is a response to chronic criminal behavior that has threatened local neighborhoods. The complaint notes that Fort Worth Police have responded to numerous reported incidents at the location over the past year. Alleged offenses documented in the lawsuit include prostitution, narcotics violations, weapons infractions, and a homicide investigation.
Under the cited state law, a judge has the authority to order the property closed for up to one year if the circumstances warrant it. The city is seeking a court order that would mandate changes to management practices and security protocols as part of the effort to stop the illegal activity.
City Manager Jay Chapa emphasized that the municipality would not ignore criminal threats to the community. He stated that property owners are responsible for operating their sites in a way that prevents persistent illegal acts. Chapa added that the city intends to use all available legal tools to protect residents, support law enforcement, and hold owners accountable.
Fort Worth Police Chief Eddie Garcia and other city leaders addressed the lawsuit on Tuesday. The legal action follows a December 2025 announcement by the city regarding the creation of the Nuisance Enforcement Task Force, or NET Force. This group includes representatives from ten city departments and is tasked with conducting joint inspections to enforce regulations against property owners who allow illegal activity.
