A Win for Our Community: Court Issues Preliminary Injunction for 1828 Q Street SE

This week, I had to take the stand in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to testify about the persistent safety, health, and nuisance issues affecting our neighborhood around 1828 Q Street SE.

Taking the stand is never easy, but speaking up for our community was essential. On September 29, 2026, Judge Veronica Sanchez issued a ruling in District of Columbia v. 1828 Q Street SE Apartments, LLC, et al. (Case No. 2026-CAB-006509), officially GRANTING the District’s Motion for a Preliminary Injunction.

The Court determined that the property is a drug-related nuisance under D.C. Code §§ 42-3101–42-3114 and ordered the owners and operators—1828 Q Street Apartments SE LLC, Marquis Bailey, and Dion Robertson—to take immediate corrective action.

Key Terms of the Court Order

Judge Sanchez ordered the Defendants to abate all illegal nuisances immediately by executing a comprehensive security plan within 30 days. The key requirements include:

1. Armed Security Personnel

• First 14 Days: 24/7 armed security on-site immediately.
• After 14 Days: Armed security coverage for 12 hours per day.
• Note: If trespassers or unauthorized occupants persist, security measures will be re-evaluated by the court.

2. Building Access & Physical Security

• Securing Access: Installing a "lock out" front door and securing secondary side exits so residents can throw away trash safely without letting unauthorized individuals inside.
• Vacant Units: Securing all vacant unit doors and windows with steel coverings.
• Laundry Room Security: Removing unauthorized occupants from the laundry room, securing the door, and repairing/sanitizing the washing machines.

3. Lighting, Surveillance & Property Maintenance

• Surveillance: Installing and maintaining a security camera system capturing all interior and exterior areas without visual obstruction.
• Lighting: Installing adequate lighting throughout the property.
• Blight Removal: Clearing all trash and waste from shared common areas, clearing garbage outside the secondary exit, and towing the camper van/trailer currently parked at the rear of the property.

Looking Ahead

This Preliminary Injunction is a major milestone in reclaiming safety, cleanliness, and peace of mind for everyone living near and within the property. However, our work isn't done yet—ensuring these court-ordered fixes are fully implemented over the next 30 days is vital.

The next scheduled milestone in court is a Remote Initial Scheduling Conference on November 24, 2026, at 12:00 PM.

Thank you to every neighbor who documented issues, stayed involved, and supported efforts to hold property operators accountable. Let's keep working together to ensure our community remains safe, clean, and vibrant!