Law Enforcement Speaks on Impact of Safer Kentucky Act on Homeless

In Bowling Green, Kentucky, there’s been a bit ofa kerfuffle over the Safer Kentucky Act. The main issue? The act, which kicked off on July 15, makes it against the law for folks to sleep or camp in public spots. The folks who don’t stick to the law can land themselves in hot water, with penalties ranging from a good old fashioned telling-off to arrests, and even misdemeanors in serious cases.

But the local law enforcement dudes want everyone to know that they’re not out to hound the homeless folks.

Educating, not criminalizing

“We’re here to give them the lowdown on what the new law says, and tell them what they should be doing. We tell them that they can’t bunk here anymore,” explained Public Information Officer Ronnie Ward.

Ward also emphasized that their goal isn’t to get these folks behind bars. “We’re trying our absolute best to stay away from tossing people in jail. Jail isn’t the answer,” he said.

Meanwhile, the big boss at the Warren County Sheriff’s office, Brett Hightower, shed a light on their plans to have a chit-chat about resources that could help these homeless folks when dealing with calls about them illegally crashing in public spots.

Redirecting to beneficial services

“We’re trying to have a chinwag with these folks, bring in local partners who can steer them towards services that we reckon would come in handy for them,” Hightower explained.

But not everybody has been thrilled with the law. Advocate for the homeless dudes, Kris York, earlier this year, was quite critical of the law’s approach to homeless folks.

“Tossing them in jail isn’t going to them any good. Slapping a crime tag on them isn’t going to do them any good. Let’s get them the help they need,” argued York.

However, recently, when asked about local law enforcement’s performance with the law, York gave a thumbs up.

Safety is the priority

Hightower said that this law is all about keeping folks safe when they’re out and about. He voiced, “Folks have a right to enjoy their walks on the pavements without obstructions. Kids should be able to have fun in the park without worrying about dangerous stuff lying around.”

Since the law took effect, law enforcement has dished out only a handful of citations and warnings to folks who refused to move from their public camping spot.