Owner of home with several trash, vehicle complaints faces warrant for arrest

COLUMBIA MO.

A home in the 100 block of Sexton Road that caught fire about a year ago is now at the center of multiple city complaints surrounding trash and abandoned vehicles.

The home -- owned by Carlos Alvino Lee Lawson -- has a dumpster and other items outside of it that city officials say pose a health hazard.

Columbia Neighborhood Services Manager Leigh Kottwitz told ABC 17 News the city is familiar with the property and is working to clean it up.

"Notices have been sent from our office, and the court and our staff have talked with the owner in person," Kottwitz said.

Charges have been filed against Lawson in municipal court, but he has not appeared for a hearing. As a result, a warrant for his arrest was issued earlier this month.

ABC 17 News reached out to the city's prosecutors' office, which said they do not have a comment on the case.

The city is also concerned about the condition of the house itself and is working to obtain a warrant to inspect it. Information gathered from the inspection could help determine whether the property needs to be demolished.

Officials are concerned people may be living in the home, though one neighbor told ABC 17 News they have not seeing anyone inside for a few days.