On September 16th , Metro police arrested a homeless person in front of the Wilshire and Western subway station in the heart of LA’s Koreatown. As homeless individuals have been setting up camp at this subway station, businesses along Western Avenue have been suffering, leading business owners to call for measures to address the situation.
According to authorities, the arrested individual is accused of inciting other homeless people to rob pedestrians passing through the area and using drugs while camping in front of businesses along Western Avenue. Earlier that morning, authorities had instructed the homeless individuals gathered around the Wilshire and Western subway station to disperse. When they did not comply, it eventually led to the arrest.
Korean-owned businesses such as clothing stores, grocery markets, and restaurants line Western Avenue. Recently, the presence of homeless individuals camping on the streets has led to a sharp decline in customer foot traffic to these establishments.
Western Avenue has seen the emergence of various businesses in recent years, including convenience stores like 7-Eleven, fast-food restaurants, and a UPS post office. However, with the exception of UPS, most of these businesses have had to close due to deteriorating business conditions.
Some currently operating stores explained that as the area becomes more slum-like due to homeless individuals living on the streets, the number of customers visiting their stores has decreased.
Business owners appealed that it is crucial for city authorities to actively seek solutions to resolve the current situation.
