Tearing Down Trouble: Years of Crime End as 80 Twin Avenue Faces Demolition
By Rockland Daily Staff
Residents of the Twin Elm–Union neighborhood in the Town of Ramapo are breathing a long-overdue sigh of relief, as the infamous house at 80 Twin Avenue is finally set to be torn down in the coming days, closing a dark chapter that has haunted the community for years.
As of today, the last remaining resident has vacated 80 Twin Avenue. Both the water and electricity have been officially shut off, signaling the start of final preparations for demolition. With the property now fully cleared and disconnected, neighbors say they’re finally seeing the light at the end of a long, dark tunnel.
A major force behind the scenes throughout this ordeal was Zalmen Kepetch, whose tireless advocacy and coordination with officials were key in bringing about this long-awaited resolution. His years of dedication and close partnership with community leaders were instrumental in restoring safety and peace to the area, something neighbors are deeply grateful for.
For far too long, 80 Twin was a hub of crime, fear, and chaos. The property became notorious for drug activity, theft, and repeated disturbances that made daily life unbearable for families nearby. It drew a constant stream of drug dealers and criminals, turning an otherwise peaceful neighborhood into a zone of anxiety and fear.
Law enforcement presence at the home was a near-daily occurrence, not simply due to complaints, but because the threat was very real. Officers responded to ongoing incidents ranging from harassment and theft to violent behavior and even dangerous dogs roaming the property. Neighbors lived in constant fear, feeling unsafe in their own homes.
The issue dragged on for three years, but thankfully, change came through the intervention of Congressman Mike Lawler and his Chief of Staff, Rafi Zilberberg, who recognized the seriousness of the situation and escalated it to the Sheriff’s Department, County officials, and State authorities. Their efforts led to a major bust at the home, during which illegal drugs and contraband were seized, delivering a decisive blow to the criminal activity that had plagued the property.
“For years, we didn’t feel safe living here,” one longtime neighbor told Rockland Daily. “There were thefts, drug activity, strange cars at all hours, and dangerous dogs. We were trapped in our own homes. Seeing 80 Twin finally torn down feels like a dark cloud has lifted, and we’re incredibly grateful to Mr. Kepetch for never giving up on us.”
A new building project, backed by Jewish owners, is set to break ground in the coming days, marking the start of a fresh chapter for the area.
Rockland Daily has run multiple stories on this case, with some of them linked below:
Long Time Trouble Spot on Twin Avenue Focus of Joint Narcotics Operation by Local Law Enforcement
Twin Avenue in Double Trouble After Newest Arrest
Arrest Made for Twin Avenue Career Criminal
Friday Night Multi-Vehicle Accident in Front of 80 Twin Avenue in Spring Valley
Twin Avenue Career Criminal Convicted on Multiple Felony Charges
Major Police Bust At 80 Twin Ave
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