Macon-Bibb County Files Lawsuit to Abate Crime at Apartment Complex

Macon-Bibb County has filed a lawsuit in Superior Court against the owners and operators of Autumn Trace Apartments on Rocky Creek Road, citing ongoing violent crime, gang activity, and hundreds of emergency calls at the property.

The legal action seeks to permanently enjoin, restrain, and abate what the County describes as a public nuisance at the complex. The move comes after the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office identified the apartments as a serious concern and formally requested assistance from the County in January.

“The number and severity of shootings here are extremely concerning, and immediate action must be taken,” said Mayor Lester Miller. “Our community has said loud and clear that public safety is its top priority, and we have made it clear we will not tolerate businesses not taking appropriate measures to protect people.”

Escalating Crime and Resource Strain

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the complex has experienced substantial gang and drug activity over the past two years, including frequent shootings and violent crimes that have increased in both frequency and severity in recent months.

Since 2024, hundreds of 911 calls have originated from the property. Officials say the level of criminal activity has required increased patrols, undercover operations, and other law enforcement resources from both local agencies and the State of Georgia.

Incidents outlined in the lawsuit include murder, kidnapping, gunfire into and around apartments, gunfights, theft, home invasions, and vehicle break-ins. Authorities note that shots fired into residences have injured multiple people, including children.

“We are investing millions to improve public safety – from salary increases to new equipment to mental health services to the Blight Fight and more – and we must make sure we are addressing it at all levels,” Miller added.

Proposed Safety Measures

As part of the complaint, the County outlined a series of safety measures that could reduce criminal activity at the property. These include:

Installing high-resolution security cameras with audio capability and sufficient lighting
Providing law enforcement with live access to camera footage
Adding perimeter fencing and gated vehicle access
Installing speed bumps to slow vehicles attempting to flee
Strictly enforcing lease terms and evicting tenants involved in criminal activity
Conducting regular inspections to identify unregistered occupants or illegal activity
Hiring licensed armed security or off-duty law enforcement for 24/7 coverage
Maintaining vehicle registries and “do not rent” lists
Promptly repairing damage caused by criminal activity
Creating meaningful channels for residents to report safety concerns

Georgia law allows a Superior Court judge to abate a nuisance that is injurious to public health or safety under O.C.G.A. § 41-2-1.