Nuisance property plan raises concerns

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- Anti-domestic violence activists say they're worried that battered women could be evicted from their homes under Providence's newly revised nuisance ordinance.

The new law targets properties where crimes repeatedly occur and allows police to apply for court orders to evict tenants. City officials can also fine property owners up to $25,000 for not eliminating problems.

The Providence Journal reports that advocates for abused people say domestic violence victims could face eviction under the law if they are assaulted in their homes more than once within a six-month period. They say repeated crimes would trigger the nuisance law and possible eviction proceedings.

Mayor Angel Taveras and City Council members say they plan to modify a part of the ordinance that addresses assault and battery to address concerns by several groups.