Cuyahoga Land Bank Assists Law Enforcement with the acquisition and demolition of the property where convicted felon Ariel Castro held his victims

As we have been in the past, the Cuyahoga Land Bank was recently tapped by the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor to assist law enforcement by acquiring and demolishing a property that was forfeited as a part of a plea agreement made by a defendant.

Because of the high-profile nature of this case and the heinousness of the crime, it was important that we move quickly.  In mid-July, the Cuyahoga Land Bank took title to the property, conducted all professional inspections and surveys and worked with law enforcement officials to remove this negative monument to the surrounding area.

Cuyahoga Land Bank Director of Acquisitions, Disposition and Development Cheryl Stephens oversaw the demolition, ensuring that all the necessary protocols were consistent with law enforcement guidelines and U.S. EPA guidelines.

“We take these responsibilities extremely seriously and are pleased to have been available to Prosecutor Timothy McGinty and law enforcement officials to do what was necessary to help the community heal,” said Stephens.

The Cuyahoga Land Bank intends to seek the guidance of the local government, the community and the leadership of the Prosecutor regarding future disposition and reuse of the property.