Hollywood is being overrun by criminals and prostitutes, residents say

HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Angry residents gathered in Hollywood on Wednesday as they said their neighborhood is being overrun with criminals and prostitutes.

Problem areas like an abandoned complex on Lexington Avenue that vagrants have repeatedly broken through plywood to get into were brought to the attention of the Los Angeles Police Department.

LAPD Deputy Chief Beatrice Girmala and Hollywood Capt. Cory Palka were in attendance during the meeting and stated that crime is actually down in the area.

"The reality is their perception is their reality, and then we have the responsibility to respond to that. One way to do that is to be a good listener and respond to that," Palka said.

During the meeting, LAPD Officer Paul Jordan announced a security guard would begin manning the Lexington Avenue property Wednesday evening, and also stated the complex was set to be demolished later this month.

But those in attendance at the meeting said there were several other problems that needed to be addressed. One concern for residents was the ability to get help from police officers.

"It's been a constant issue when you call 911, or the non-emergency line, of not being able to get through. And even when you do get through, no one comes out," Hollywood resident Jonathan Theriault said.

With that said, officials said they would still strongly encourage residents to report issues with the police department and to follow up on those reports.