A Buckhead real estate investor facing jail time over conditions at his properties asked a judge to dismiss his cases Tuesday, arguing that city housing code is so vague it is unconstitutional.
Rick Warren’s attorney George Lawson also argued that prosecutors introduced no proof that he owns the properties, which means he should not be held criminally responsible under Georgia law. Deputy Solicitor Erika Smith responded during the afternoon hearing that Warren, who was present at Tuesday’s hearing, was trying to hide behind a corporate veil.
Warren has already stood trial twice for what code enforcement officers describe as hazardous conditions at two different houses, and faces a dozen or so more. Municipal Court Judge Crystal Gaines has yet to issue verdicts on those trials, and said she will rule on Lawson’s motion at a later date. Warren’s next trial is scheduled for July 14.
A 2014 Atlanta Journal-Constitution investigation found that Warren owns some 150 properties in and around English Avenue, one of Atlanta's most impoverished neighborhoods. Many are crumbling from neglect, and neighbors complain they breed filth and crime.
Mayor Kasim Reed vowed to follow Warren's cases until he is brought to justice.
About the Author
