Official: Bellport home condemned for violating town code

Brookhaven officials have condemned a Bellport home as part of an effort to crack down on homes that are in violation of town codes as well as those where overcrowding and illegal activity may be taking place.

Town Councilwoman Connie Kepert, who represents the fourth district, said she has targeted Bellport and Gordon Heights for homes that violate town codes.

Meanwhile, a task force consisting of Town Supervisor Edward Romaine's office, Suffolk County Police, Bellport residents and Brookhaven's law and building departments was recently created to enforce the crackdown townwide. The number of homes that have recently been condemned wasn't immediately available.

The Bellport home in the 740 block of Bourdois Avenue was condemned Friday after county officers arrested four adults and two teenagers after finding drugs, guns and ammunition in the house, officials said.

"Residents complained of drug activity and gun violence at the home," Kepert said. "We're trying to be proactive and give some relief to residents."

Three elementary school children who were at the home during the police search were taken away and allowed to stay with other relatives, town officials said. Two puppies were handed over to the Brookhaven Town Animal Shelter. Town officials say the residence was covered in filth, contained dangerous electrical hazards and had no operating heating system.

While occupants apparently used fueled space heaters to stay warm, there were no smoke or carbon monoxide detectors installed in the house, town officials said.

"Houses like this are a danger to the hard working families who live nearby and a severe threat to the quality of life throughout the entire community," Romaine said in a press statement.

"Our goal is to make this neighborhood safer, so any action the town takes against homes in violation of codes is welcome," said John Rogers, chairman of the Greater Bellport Coalition, a civic organization.

Residents can call 631-451-8696 if they believe a property is in violation of any Brookhaven property codes.