NORTHVILLE, Mich. – Police are increasing the number of patrols of the former Northville Psychiatric Hospital property and are instituting a zero-tolerance policy toward trespassing.
After more than 400 arrests made this year on the property, Northville Township police are anticipating a higher number of trespassers due to the Halloween season. In a statement released Friday, the Department of Public Safety urged "ghost hunters and thrill seekers" to consider the potential dangers in the hospital that has stood vacant since 2003. Current plans to redevelop the area have no dates attached yet.
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Due to ineffective controls and oversight of the buildings' closing, some equipment that was deemed expendable was left behind. The statement warns that the buildings are unsafe, containing many hazards including broken glass, asbestos and the poor structural integrity of the buildings themselves. It is not the first time they've increased patrols this year.
Northville Township police will arrest anyone found on the site. Trespassing is a misdemeanor offense that carries a penalty of up to a $500 fine and/or up to 90 days in jail. Last year, a man was arrested after his posts on social media revealed that he had trespassed on the grounds.
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