Earlier today, police in Nashville made a significant move to clean up a neighborhood plagued by crime, padlocking a market that has been a persistent source of trouble. Star Market on Buchanan Street was closed down following a court order, Metropolitan Nashville Police Department announced. The business, which has been linked to over 400 police responses in the past five years, was deemed a public nuisance as officers and detectives enforced the shutdown, according to NewsChannel 5.
Neighbors and authorities alike have long complained about the activities surrounding the market, with reports of drug deals, violence, and disturbances. "The community is sick and tired of this kind of activity," said Metro Police Chief John Drake in a statement obtained by The Tennessean. Chief Drake also added that despite being given a chance to promptly address the issues, the owners failed to make changes, leading to over 60 documented instances of crime since their warning last August.
Court-ordered signs now hang on the storefront, announcing its closure and highlighting the city's determination to address crime hotspots. Police had met with the owners in August 2022 to discuss intervention strategies, but with little to no improvement, police were compelled to take action. The business is expected to remain closed pending a hearing on Thursday.
The enforcement measures didn't stop at Star Market. A related search warrant was served at F&B Mart on Clarksville Highway, which is also tied to the same ownership. Investigations into the owners have led to several charges, including money laundering and connected retail crimes. "We are going to have money laundering and other charges coming their way," Drake mentioned in an interview with WKRN News. Reinforcing this stance, officials emphasized the store's involvement in the acquisition and sale of stolen goods.
This crackdown reflects a concerted effort by the MNPD and the District Attorney's Office to tackle establishments that are causing disruptive impacts on communities. The padlocking of Star Market is a clear signal that actions falling under the public nuisance law will lead swiftly to decisive law enforcement action.
