The Columbus City Attorney's Office and a Franklinton non-profit that helps women escape sex trafficking have reached an agreement for safety improvements at the site.
An agreed-upon court order says Sanctuary Night must add security cameras and lighting and hire security officers.
The non-profit must also ban camping at the Sullivant Avenue site, prohibit drug and alcohol use and maintain a list of people who are banned from the property.
Sanctuary Night must not serve food to clients or potential clients who identify as male or aren't receiving services from the agency.
The Columbus City Attorney's Office filed a nuisance lawsuit against Sanctuary Night on April 30 after police reported more than 230 police runs reporting open drug use, apparent sex work and property crime.
Neighbors have also reported fires, people using the facility’s outdoor spigot to bathe and public urination and defecation.
The Columbus Division of Fire has also responded to 40 suspected overdoses at the property.
“This order is a significant and important step towards much-needed safety, security and well-being of the neighborhood and the women who seek refuge at Sanctuary Night,” Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein said in a statement. “We will remain engaged with Sanctuary Night and neighbors and will not hesitate to take any additional steps to protect public safety should the need arise.”
A statement from Hannah Estabrook, Sanctuary Night's executive director, said the details outlined in the agreement include changes the organization has been looking to implement since March 1, including boosting security, enhancing accountability for the women it serves and collaborating with police.
"As a three-year-old mission-driven organization, we are committed to continuing to improve to be good neighbors while supporting women in crisis,” Estabrook said.
Franklin County Environmental Judge Stephanie Mingo signed the order Wednesday.