Cafe Alessie Hires Security After Break-Ins
We got our window smashed with one of our flower vases they just kind of threw it at the door,
said Diego Marquez, co-owner of Cafe Alessie on 15th Street in San Diego’s East Village.
A cafe in San Diego’s East Village has hired a security guard following a series of thefts, break-ins, and property damage that business owners say have disrupted operations and made customers and employees uncomfortable, NBC 7 San Diego reported. The issues at Cafe Alessie began with items disappearing from the shop, such as the tip jar and beverages from the refrigerator. Escalating problems included a break-in caught on surveillance video in January, a shattered glass door in December 2025, and an incident where Marquez nearly was stabbed with a screwdriver.
Neighborhood issues reduce coffee shop revenue
Marquez stated that while the newly hired security guard has made people feel safer, the ongoing neighborhood issues have negatively affected sales. Although regular customers continue to patronize the shop, he noted a dip in revenue as visitors grow weary of dealing with uncomfortable situations. Despite these challenges, Marquez emphasized that he does not oppose helping individuals experiencing homelessness. The coffee shop is running a winter clothing drive to collect sweaters and blankets for people in need. He argued that the city needs to direct more tax revenue toward public resources that address homelessness rather than leaving local businesses to manage the crisis alone.
Neighboring residents report facing similar daily hurdles in the area. Jeana Wallace, an East Village resident of more than eight years and participant in a local resident advocacy group, stated she petitioned in support of the city’s camping ordinance and regularly reports neighborhood issues to Clean & Safe. Wallace noted that pedestrians, particularly families with children and people using strollers, often find sidewalks blocked by individuals experiencing homelessness. While she acknowledged seeing local homeless outreach workers in the district, she urged the mayor and city council members to take more decisive action so residents and visitors feel comfortable supporting local businesses.
Marquez questions presence of city outreach teams
Marquez mentioned that the Coordinated Street Outreach Program informed him that its teams frequently operate within the East Village. However, he noted he has not personally witnessed those teams in his immediate vicinity, pointing out the large geographic area they must cover. NBC 7 San Diego reached out to the city of San Diego for comment regarding neighborhood safety and outreach efforts but did not receive a response prior to publication.
Frequently Asked Questions About East Village Safety
What specific security incidents occurred at Cafe Alessie?
The business experienced stolen items including tip jars and refrigerator drinks, a shattered glass door in December 2025, a surveillance-captured break-in in January, and an incident where co-owner Diego Marquez was nearly stabbed with a screwdriver.
How are local residents responding to the neighborhood conditions?
Residents like Jeana Wallace have participated in advocacy groups, petitioned in support of the city’s camping ordinance, and regularly reported street issues to the Clean & Safe maintenance program.
What city resources have contacted local business owners?
The city’s Coordinated Street Outreach Program reached out to Marquez to report that its teams frequently work throughout the East Village neighborhood.
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