PROPERY OWNER WITHDRAWS OFFER TO HOUSE SEXUALLY VIOLENT PREDATOR IN CAMPO

By Miriam Raftery

October 8, 2013 (Campo) – Following a community protest and written complaints, the owner of a home in Campo has withdrawn an agreement to house Douglas Badger, a sexual predator with a long history of violence.  The state had announced plans to release Badger from a mental hospital to a residence on Hartnell Road in Campo, as ECM previously reported.

“We were notified that the property owner rescinded his offer to allow Badger the ability to rent his residence, therefore, the process starts all over. So at this time Badger will not be moving to Campo,” Sergeant Ronald Edwards with the San Diego Sheriff’s office confirmed in an email sent to Bette Palovchik, a resident who had been circulation a petition opposing Badger’s release in Campo.

Claudia Millerbragg tracked down the property owner through online research, then informed the owner of the community’s concerns.  “Glad I found out who owns that property! Grateful for all the neighbors who called the owner,” Millerbragg told ECM. She also helped organize a rally to show community opposition.

Palovchik concluded, “Great community unity brought about this positive decision.”

It is not yet known where the state will recommend releasing Badger next.