Los Angeles Neighborhood Battles Decades of Trash Accumulation at Resident's Home

Residents of the affluent Fairfax District in Los Angeles have endured years of complaints over an unbearable odor emanating from a property described as a "trash house." The home, owned by Vietnam War veteran Raymond Gaon, has become a neighborhood blight, with mountains of trash reportedly covering the property.

Gaon, 72, purchased his home in the wealthy neighborhood in 1996. Friends report that he collects recyclables to earn money and is struggling to manage his property. A psychiatrist hired by Gaon's attorney noted that the senior acknowledged "some conflicts" with his neighbors and felt "uncomfortable" with being stigmatized.

Efforts have been made to clear the property. In October 2026, approximately seven tons of trash were collected, along with 1,000 pounds of household hazardous waste. Despite these cleanups, images from the same period showed that mountains of trash remained on Gaon's property. Neighbors have observed Gaon walking with a cart filled with recyclables and other items down local streets.

Neighbors have described the situation as a persistent problem, with the unbearable odor becoming a significant issue. The $1.3 million home's condition has drawn the ire of those living nearby, with some dubbing Gaon "America's worst neighbor."