Illegal dumping in Southeast DC leading to rodent, racoon and odor issues

WASHINGTON — Residents in Southeast D.C. have a big mess on their hands.

They reached out to WUSA9 after they say there's been several failed attempts at getting the city to clean up a large pile of trash.

Residents from the 1900 block of Curtis Court told WUSA9 the illegal dumping is leading to rats, racoons and unwanted smells.

PJ, a 25-year resident, said the problem started about a year ago.

“I noticed people come and dump and run. It’s not necessarily people in the area,” PJ said.

PJ said she and several other residents have contacted the city's 311 line and Ward 8 leaders multiple times. She said their complaints, so far, have been ignored.

“We are paying the same taxes as Ward 1 in upper Northwest. People live here. It’s bringing down our property value. Do the right thing. It’s all we’re asking.” PJ said.

WUSA9 reached out to DC Public Works to see why the trash hasn’t been picked up. We have yet to hear back, though it is Independence Day and most government offices close for holidays.

Residents told WUSA9 they’re now considering installing cameras to catch illegal dumping.

Do you have a news tip on this story or any other story? We want to hear from you. Tell us about it by emailing newstips@wusa9.com. 

MORE WAYS TO GET WUSA9  

HOW TO ADD THE FREE WUSA9+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE

ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for WUSA9.  

For both Apple TV and Fire TV, search for "WUSA9" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.  

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE WUSA9 NEWSLETTER 

Subscribe to our daily WUSA9 Newsletter for top stories from WUSA9 curated daily just for you. Get content and information right now for can’t-miss stories, Commanders content, weather, and more delivered right to your inbox.