Richardson “Red” Griswold of Griswold Receivers has been appointed by the Los Angeles County Superior Court as the court-appointed receiver for an 8-acre hillside property long associated with ongoing public nuisance violations, unauthorized events, and unpermitted construction activity.
The City of Whittier filed a civil complaint in June 2024 seeking a temporary restraining order, injunctions, and public nuisance abatement after repeated efforts to gain compliance through standard enforcement channels were unsuccessful.
City records show that construction and grading began on the property without permits as early as fall 2022. Despite a Stop Work notice and a subsequent Notice of Non-Compliance that outlined specific corrective actions, no restoration, erosion control, or pollution prevention plans were properly submitted. The unpermitted grading occurred within an earthquake-induced landslide zone and caused continued runoff of mud and debris to downhill properties.
In addition, the site has been used since 2023 as an unpermitted event venue, hosting large gatherings—including weddings and late-night parties—with no conditional use permit or business license. These events included fireworks, amplified music, a ferris wheel, animals, and hundreds of guests, creating substantial noise and safety concerns for the surrounding community. Complaints were frequent and ongoing.
Recent articles by NBC Los Angeles and Whittier Daily News highlight the frustration and concern from neighbors at a City Council meeting in February when the subject of the property was up for discussion.
As receiver, the Griswold Receivers team is now responsible for securing the property, halting all unauthorized activity, and ensuring compliance with court directives.
“We plan to take immediate and swift action,” said Richardson Griswold, receiver, attorney, and CEO of Griswold Receivers. “We recognize that the city wants these problems addressed quickly and effectively, and that aligns with our core values. Our team is here to resolve complex issues and lift the burden off cities when it comes to protecting the health and safety of their communities.”
This receivership appointment is a critical step toward restoring safety and compliance to the neighborhood—and highlights the continued importance of receivership as a remedy for complex, noncompliant properties.
Need Help With a Difficult Receivership Case?
Griswold Receivers specializes in health and safety receiverships across the Western region. We understand that each case is unique, and we have a proven track record of solving problems previously deemed unsolvable. From California, Arizona, Nevada and beyond, if your city or agency is struggling with a non-compliant property or a challenging situation, contact us to learn how we can help achieve compliance in a timely manner while reducing conflict, easing stress, protecting community well-being, and supporting positive outcomes for all involved parties.
