DULUTH, GA (CBS ATLANTA) -
Code enforcers in Gwinnett County said they are increasingly frustrated that neither the owner nor the bank will take responsibility for a home that burned down years ago.
"It's dangerous and brings down property values," said Cpl. Edwin Ritter of the Gwinnett County Police Deparment, which oversees code enforcement.
Investigators said the fire at the home on Bristol Lane was intentionally set in 2009.
Code enforcers cited both the owner who now lives in Washington State and Bank of America that holds the mortgage but neither appeared for recent court dates.
A warrant has now been issued for the owner's arrest.
"I think it's a disgrace," said Lawrence Yancey who used to live in the neighborhood. "It's a disgrace to the neighborhood and to the homeowners who have investments in this subdivision. It should be cleaned up."
Neighbors said they worry that curious children might climb through the debris.
"I'd hate to see a little child get hurt because of it, because Bank of America was lazy, or irresponsible or both," said Rebecca Hall who lives around the corner.
A spokeswoman from the bank told CBS Atlanta she would research the property but it could take some time.
"I think somebody should have had the initiative and had the pride to clean that lot up and do away with that junk," said Yancey.
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