Sacramento County Ordinance Puts Dent In Panhandling Problems
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — It's been nearly two months since a new ordinance went into effect to curb aggressive panhandling in Sacramento County. It prohibits panhandling near businesses, gas stations and ATMs to name a few locations.
It's no secret that persistent panhandling is a problem in some parts of Sacramento.
"Sometimes I fear for my life, like what if I don't give them change? Are they going to stab me?" said driver Bianca LaBeau.
The issue has plagued areas like one near Arden Fair mall where drivers encounter people holding signs and begging for money. Some don't take no for an answer.
Thuy Tresner says aggressive panhandlers scare off her customers at her Elegant Designs Bridal Shop off of Arden Way.
"Some are really nice, you know. You ask them nicely and they leave. And some, they yell at you back," she said. "Customers come in and see bums in front of your shop, they hesitate to come in and do any kind of business with you."
This year, Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies have started to crack down on chronic panhandlers.
"We can go out and deal with that directly by trespassing the individual off the property, or if they need to be arrested, we can take them to jail," said Deputy Tom Mantei.
A new ordinance took effect in January that prohibits panhandling in the medians of roadways as well as near public transportation, ATMs, intersections, gas stations, or at entrances of shopping centers or businesses.
Is it working so far? Mantei says it s.
"We usually give them a warning that this particular property is off-limits and they'll stay away," he said.
And Tresner says she's noticed the improvement, too.
"Thank you so much for doing that. I appreciate it, speaking for all the owners around here in this area," she said.
Under the ordinance, a panhandler's first violation could equal a fine. A second violation in a six-month period could mean misdemeanor charges and even jail time.