Appellate Court Upholds Homeless Man's Right to Beg
NEW YORK (WCBS 880) - In 2006, Eric Hoffstead was arrested for panhandling after asking a New Rochelle cop for a dollar.
After a four-year fight, WCBS 880's Catherine Cioffi reports the appellate court has refused to overrule a ruling in favor of Hoffstead.
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WCBS 880's Catherine Cioffi with details on the suit.
"It's a great moment for him, and he should really be proud," said Hoffstead's attorney Carl Birman.
Birman said their argument was always that asking for money is a form of free speech.
"People have the right to ask for money and help. It's a very important victor for the rights of the homeless," said Birman.
Since Hoffstead was arrested, the law against panhandling has been repealed by the state.
"It was all about free speech," said Birman.
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