Judge Orders Occupants to Vacate 'Drug House' in La Grange

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A Cook County judge has ordered the occupants of a notorious 'drug house' in the Chicago suburb of La Grange to vacate the property by 5 p.m. on Wednesday. The house has been the subject of over 100 police visits and a SWAT raid in recent months, following more than 2 years of complaints from frustrated residents about drug activity at the home.

Why it matters

The case highlights the challenges law enforcement can face in addressing persistent nuisance properties, even when residents have repeatedly reported issues. It also raises questions about the coordination between local police and prosecutors in handling such cases.

The details

The judge seemed surprised that La Grange police had not acted sooner to evict the occupants, who appear to be squatters without valid leases. The police chief defended his department's response, saying they continue to address resident concerns, though he acknowledged the judge may not have all the facts about the 'different caveats' of who is living there. Prosecutors had previously dropped charges against the home's former owner after La Grange police failed to appear in court, though the department said the officer was on leave and they were working to reinstate the charges.

• For over 2 years, residents have complained about drug activity at the home.
• In recent months, the home has been the site of more than 100 police visits and a SWAT raid.
• On February 11, 2026, a Cook County judge ordered the occupants to vacate the property by 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge has set a deadline of 5 p.m. on Wednesday for the occupants to vacate the property. La Grange police have said they will be present to support residents and ensure the occupants leave.