Soylent CEO Apologizes For Failed 'Sustainable Housing' Experiment
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — The creator of the meal replacement product Soylent has apologized for building and then later abandoning a vandalized cargo container atop a Montecito Heights hillside.
Robert Rhinehart Jr. allegedly refused to remove the container from a parcel of land he owns located at 2936 N. Ashland Avenue in June after he was cited by the Department of Building and Safety for what officials say was unpermitted grading and construction on the vacant lot, according to the City Attorney's office.
After prosecutors announced criminal charges last week, Rhineheart posted a message to his website Monday apologizing for the project.
"Over the last week, there have been news reports regarding my shipping container project on Flat Top Hill. I have since removed the container, and brought the land in to compliance with city building and safety codes. I would like to offer my sincerest apologies to my neighbors who I upset.
"As a first time property owner, the container was meant to be an experiment in sustainable housing. In the future, I will ensure that I do my due diligence with regard to all city and neighborhood regulations. Flat Top Hill is a gem of Los Angeles, and I intend to make only positive contributions to the neighborhood and community going forward."
Back in April, city inspectors say they observed the 9-foot-by-30-foot bright red shipping container secured on the lot allegedly being used by Rhinehart as an experimental living facility.
Images posted to Rhineheart's Instagram account during the same time period appeared to show him sitting outside the makeshift residence.
When officials returned in June for follow-up investigations, they found recently installed windows on the container had been smashed and the container was covered in graffiti, according to prosecutors.
Rhineheart is currently scheduled for arraignment in September and if convicted as charged, he could face up to two years in jail and $4,000 in fines.