Attorney General Kathy Jennings has ordered the closure of a property in Hartly, Delaware, known as "The Animal House," due to its involvement in criminal activities. The decision came after an investigation into numerous complaints including illegal bonfires emitting toxic fumes, harboring fugitives, and drive-by shootings. The site was also associated with illegal drug activities such as the sale and use of heroin and methamphetamine, leading to frequent overdoses and a fatality. Over the past eight years, police responded to around 160 complaints related to this location.
On May 9, 2025, the property at 2022 Slaughter Station Rd., owned by Shawn Haley, was declared a criminal nuisance by Kent County Superior Court. The court ordered its closure pending a permanent criminal nuisance abatement process. Consequently, all leases were voided and Haley along with other tenants were required to vacate by May 12.
"All Delaware landlords have a legal and moral obligation to follow the law and maintain their properties accordingly- full stop," stated Attorney General Kathy Jennings. "In both the nature and sheer amount of crimes occurring, this property posed an unprecedented risk to the community and the government agencies tasked with protecting it; it simply could not be allowed to continue. I am grateful to our prosecutors and the Delaware State Police for their swift and decisive action, the community is much safer for it."
The Department of Justice received the case referral from the Delaware State Police. The property will stay closed until a permanent abatement hearing is scheduled.