‘It’s constant fighting’: Belltown residents demand end to drug trade
Feb 18, 2025, 12:16 PM | Updated: 1:56 pm
Drugs were seized as part of a large investigation led by the DEA and the Seattle Police Department. These drugs are infesting local communities, like Belltown in Seattle. (Photo: DEA)
(Photo: DEA)
Residents in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood are raising concerns about rising drug use and safety issues. In response, a police commander is offering to discuss solutions with the concerned community.
Neighbors are calling for accountability and consequences to address the crime happening outside their homes. They believe this will help disrupt the drug trade, according to KOMO News.
“It’s constant fights over territory over drugs, over spots for tents,” Resident Kevin Dares told KOMO. “I’m looking for the city to utilize policies it has put in place.”
More from MyNorthwest: Washington State Lawmakers want to crack down on bounty hunters acting as immigration agents
Belltown residents ‘overwhelmed’ by drug trade
Belltown is overwhelmed with fentanyl, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine. Residents regularly report these issues but say the problems return within days after police or city workers clear the area.
Drug dealers often congregate outside social service centers, like the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), further contributing to the issue.
Seattle Police Captain Robert Brown has offered to meet with residents to discuss additional actions.
More from MyNorthwest: 1 killed in early morning Renton crash; SR 167 re-opened
