November 7, 2024 – The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department took the rare step of padlocking a South Nashville home after officers responded to more than 200 incidents there over the past ten years resulting in some 60 arrests for a laundry list of offenses.
The residence at 4912 Shasta Drive, owned by William Earnie Allen, has been declared a public nuisance in a temporary injunction and padlocking order issued by Criminal Court Judge Steve Dozier. A petition filed by the District Attorney’s Office alleges that Allen has allowed drug transactions, gunshots, the transport of stolen vehicles, drunkenness, fighting, and breaches of the peace to take place both inside and outside of the home during the day and night. More than a year ago, on September 15, 2023, South Precinct Commander Kevin Lovell met with Allen to reiterate that the criminal issues needed to stop. Even after that meeting, approximately 47 incidents requiring a police or EMS response have occurred.
A number of neighbors on Shasta Drive have expressed disgust about the activities occurring at the 4912 residence. Concerns were expressed about the safety of the community and, specifically, for children who are restricted from enjoying time outside due to unlawful occurrences.