At a Glance
- Westminster Mall closed in October after decades in business and has since become a magnet for vandals
- Over 250 police calls and 20+ arrests for trespassing and vandalism in recent months
- No security presence observed during recent overnight vandalism involving approximately 60 people
- Why it matters: The unchecked destruction raises safety concerns for the community and complicates future redevelopment plans
The Westminster Mall, a once-thriving Orange County shopping center, has become nearly unrecognizable following repeated vandalism since its closure at the end of October. The property, which operated for several decades, now bears extensive graffiti and broken windows according to footage shared with News Of Los Angeles.
Overnight Vandalism Caught on Camera
A witness who identified himself only as “Same1” documented the mall’s deterioration during a Wednesday night visit. He estimated seeing approximately 60 people inside the vacant property during his overnight observation.
“I thought it was ridiculous,” Same1 told News Of Los Angeles. “Mostly young people just breaking things.”
The witness described seeing individuals spray-painting walls and shattering windows throughout the mall. He noted the absence of any security personnel or law enforcement presence during the incident.
“No security, nothing. No security guard,” Same1 said.
Community Concerns Mount
The mall’s rapid decline has alarmed longtime residents who remember it as a community gathering place. Alexis Malatesta, who grew up visiting the Westminster Mall, created a social media page to share memories and document the property’s transformation.
“It’s very scary because it’s only a matter of time before something dangerous is happening inside the structure,” Malatesta said. “They’re not doing enough to keep people out and protect it.”
She expressed difficulty watching the gradual destruction of a place that held significant personal meaning, noting that the lack of security measures has enabled ongoing vandalism.
Police Response and Arrests
The Westminster Police Department has responded to the property approximately 250 times in recent months. Officers have made more than 20 arrests for trespassing and vandalism-related offenses since the mall’s closure.
Department officials stated they are collaborating with the property’s four owners to implement enhanced security measures. The police department has not released details about specific security upgrades being considered.
News Of Los Angeles reached out to the mall’s ownership group for comment on the vandalism and security situation, but no response has been provided.
Uncertain Future for the Property
The Westminster Mall closed its doors after operating for several decades as a major retail destination. City officials have indicated plans to transform the site into a mixed-use development featuring retail and residential components.
However, no definitive timeline has been established for the redevelopment project. The ongoing vandalism and security challenges may complicate future development efforts, though specific impacts on the redevelopment timeline have not been disclosed.
The property’s current condition stands in stark contrast to its operational years when it housed numerous shops and restaurants serving the Orange County community.
Key Takeaways
- The Westminster Mall has experienced significant vandalism since closing in October
- Over 250 police calls demonstrate the severity of security issues at the vacant property
- More than 20 arrests have been made for trespassing and vandalism
- Community members express safety concerns about the unchecked destruction
- No timeline exists for the planned mixed-use redevelopment
