For decades, a property in the 7000 block of Harry Hines Boulevard has been a hub of criminal activity, including prostitution, organized drug sales, and the violent crimes associated with that illicit activity. The City of Dallas initiated a code compliance case against the property owners in 2024; a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) operation culminated in an expansive search warrant in February 2025, leading to several federal criminal convictions; the City then initiated a criminal nuisance lawsuit, that resulted in the closure and impending demolition of the structures, which was aided by the US Attorney for the Northern District of Texas giving notice of intent to criminally charge the property owners and property managers.
“Yesterday marked the beginning of the end for a property that for decades has been associated with criminal activity and victimization in our community. This demolition is the result of a proactive, collaborative effort between local, state, and federal partners who were committed to finding a long-term solution rather than simply responding to calls for service,” said Chief of Police Daniel C. Comeaux. “At the Dallas Police Department, we have made it clear that we will not wait for crime to take root before acting. We are committed to being the most proactive police department in the country, identifying problems, building partnerships, and using every available tool to improve public safety and quality of life for the people we serve. This is what that commitment looks like.”
“The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, along with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, will remain vigilant in identifying and targeting all commercial businesses that knowingly facilitate or are used by drug dealers to distribute illegal narcotics to customers,” said U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould. “We are committed to protecting communities, disrupting criminal networks, and ensuring that places like the Cole Manor Motel are not used as vehicles for illegal drug trafficking or other criminal activities. This should serve as a warning of things to come for other businesses that fail to take security measures and implement basic compliance features to identify, report, and prevent crime from occurring on premises.”
“For years, the Cole Manor Motel was neglected by its managers, allowing street gangs to transform it into a hub for drug trafficking, illegal firearms distribution, prostitution, and violent crimes. That ends now. Through our strong partnerships with the Northern District of Texas US Attorney’s Office, Dallas City Attorney’s Office, Carrollton Police Department, Dallas Police Department, and Texas Department of Public Safety, the DEA is helping to restore safety to this community through the demolition of the Cole Manor. By dismantling the infrastructure that enabled drug trafficking and violent crime, we are protecting our neighborhoods and helping save American lives,” said DEA Dallas Special Agent in Charge Joseph B. Tucker.
Demolition is expected to begin on June 17, 2026, and the site is expected to be cleared by July 8, pending any weather delays.