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Residents urge action after months of alleged drug activity at 806 E. 23rd Avenue
Summary
Multiple neighbors told the commission they have endured repeated incidents, theft and unsafe conditions at a property on East 23rd Avenue for roughly 18 months; residents pressed for police and interagency action and the mayor said law-enforcement partners are engaged.
Several residents addressed the City Commission on Feb. 25 to report persistent criminal activity and safety hazards at 806 East 23rd Avenue and asked for immediate action.
Karen Meehall said she and her family moved to New Smyrna Beach three years ago and described escalating problems at the neighboring property: suspected elder neglect, repeated visits by different people she described as buying or taking drugs, large backyard bonfires, and frequent police responses. "We no longer let [my granddaughter] play in the front yard," Meehall said, adding that police had responded to the address multiple times since June 2024.
Neighbors who spoke afterward corroborated frequent visits to the home and described thefts, vandalism and other disturbances. One nearby resident said the problem has persisted for roughly 18 months and that community members feel unsafe leaving children outside.
Kelly Driscoll gave an emotional account and said she reviewed police reports that, she said, show multiple arrests and drug possession at the address. "I've looked up every police report," she said. "What do we need to do? I feel like I'm risking my life and safety being here today." Driscoll said she had contacted deputies, the police chief and other county officials and offered to install additional cameras tied to the district so law enforcement could monitor activity.
Commissioners thanked speakers and said staff and the police chief were aware of the situation. Mayor Cleveland said local, county and state partners were involved and that some operational details could not be discussed publicly because they would reveal investigative steps, but he added: "Rest assured, you have our attention" and that surveillance and investigative activity were underway.
Commissioners asked residents to meet with police so staff could use available resources and pursue longer-term remedies. The commission did not take a formal vote on policy at the meeting but directed staff and the police to follow up with the affected residents.
