City of Fort Worth files lawsuit to have East Lancaster property declared a nuisance

Fort Worth Police have responded to numerous reported incidents associated with the property over the past year.

The city of Fort Worth has filed a lawsuit seeking to reduce crime at a property on East Lancaster.

The lawsuit seeks to have the Central Motel at 5800 E. Lancaster Avenue declared a common nuisance under Chapter 125 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, alleging the property has been the site of persistent criminal activity.

The lawsuit is intended to address chronic criminal behavior at the property. Through the lawsuit, Fort Worth asked the court to declare the property a common nuisance and issue a permanent injunction requiring measures designed to reduce criminal activity, improve management practices and enhance security, the city said.

"Chronic criminal activity that threatens our neighborhoods will not be ignored," City Manager Jay Chapa said. "Property owners have a responsibility to operate their properties in a manner that does not allow persistent criminal activity. The city will use every lawful tool available to protect our residents, support our police officers and hold property owners accountable."

According to the lawsuit, Fort Worth Police have responded to numerous reported incidents associated with the property over the past year. Alleged criminal activity includes prostitution, narcotics offenses, weapons violations and a homicide investigation.

As part of the lawsuit, the city is asking the court to impose measures to reduce criminal activity at the property. Under Chapter 125, a judge also has the authority, if warranted, to order the property closed for up to one year.

Fort Worth Police Chief Eddie Garcia, along with other city officials, addressed the lawsuit on Tuesday.

In December 2025, the city said it was creating the Nuisance Enforcement Task Force, or NET Force, comprised of 10 city departments, to slam owners with a slew of joint inspections.