Cleaning Up Central: City Closes Crime-Ridden Motel

ALBUQUERQUE - Central Avenue now has one less hazardous, crime infested motel. The City ordered Loma Verde Motel shut its doors following an inspection on Wednesday, January 8 that revealed numerous violations and serious risks to the safety of tenants and the surrounding area. The motel had become overridden by crime, with APD and AFR responding to over 150 calls for service at the motel in 2024, including 2 homicides. The City is now shutting down this neighborhood menace.

“We will not tolerate businesses that turn a blind eye or willingly engage in criminal activity in this city,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Today, we’re sending a clear message: If you put lives at risk, we will take decisive action to hold you accountable. To owners, if you have lost control of your property to the criminal element or need help restoring order, reach out to us; Shutting the doors is the last resort.”

Violations at Loma Verde included:

• Exposed wiring, electrical hazards, inadequate heating, and missing GFCI outlets and electrical covers.
• Fire hazards including missing and broken smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and blocked exists.
• Hazardous plumbing, major plumbing issues in units, broken bathroom fixtures,
• Dangerous disrepair including a leaking roof, water damage, and evidence of a roach infestation.
• Drug paraphernalia, including needles, was found throughout the complex grounds.

The tenants of Loma Verde Hotel included elderly, long-term residents and families paying between $896 and $1,300 per month for rent in dangerous living conditions. Many units lacked necessities and safety features, as noted above.

“Public safety remains our top priority. We must continue to take swift action against problematic properties that threaten the wellbeing of our community,” said Planning Department Director Alan Varela. “Through collaboration with other City departments, we will continue to ensure that every property meets the standards necessary to keep our neighborhoods safe and thriving.”

To support those who were staying at the motel, Albuquerque Community Safety helped connect tenants to other, safe living arrangements and provided transportation to get there. ACS will continue to support the tenants to get into long-term, stable housing.

There were also companion animals living at the motel, and Animal Welfare has the pets in protective custody. If the owners choose to reclaim their pets, we will ensure that the pets are in compliance with the HEART ordinance upon reclaim. All the pets were healthy.