Will San Diego Be Jailing The Homeless?

August 14th, 2023:  As the weekend approaches, San Diego prepares to implement a controversial homelessness strategy, sparking significant debate. Known as "Progressive Enforcement," this approach carries the potential of incarcerating individuals without homes who repeatedly refuse shelter. The strategy aims to address the homelessness crisis by introducing legal consequences for those who decline shelter offers, potentially leading to jail time after three warnings.

The Three Step Enforcement Process

Captain Shawn Takeuchi of the San Diego Police Department elaborated on the mechanics of the progressive enforcement strategy during a crucial city council meeting on June 13. The process unfolds in three distinct steps: initially, individuals are presented with an offer of a shelter bed, coupled with an explanation of the relevant ordinance. Subsequently, step two involves offering shelter while also issuing a misdemeanor citation. In the final step, individuals are once again provided with the opportunity for shelter, but this time, non-compliance could result in physical arrest.

Whitburn's Push for Change

San Diego Councilmember Stephen Whitburn is at the forefront of the ordinance, introducing the proposal that has stirred debate. A spokesperson from Whitburn's office shared insights with ABC10 San Diego, acknowledging the scarcity of available beds for the homeless population in the city. The efficacy of progressive enforcement hinges on the availability of these essential resources, an aspect that officials are actively addressing.

During a city council meeting on June 13, Councilmember Whitburn emphasized the potential for this strategy to assist individuals in regaining stability. He also highlighted the need for pragmatic regulations governing the use and placement of encampments, ensuring a balanced approach.

Inadequate Shelter Resources in Sacramento

The challenges faced by San Diego regarding inadequate bed capacity and shelter options mirror those in Sacramento. The federal ruling known as Martin vs Boise currently prevents cities from enforcing anti-camping ordinances until an adequate number of shelter spaces are established. This ruling, while protecting the unhoused, also poses a significant challenge for cities aiming to address homelessness effectively.

Sheriff Cooper's Perspective on Solutions

Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper weighed in on potential solutions during a press conference on July 12. He highlighted the importance of conservatorship, particularly for individuals grappling with severe mental health issues. Sheriff Cooper's perspective underscores the intricate intersection of homelessness and mental health challenges, urging targeted interventions for the most vulnerable individuals.

Debating the Role of Jail

Sacramento County Sheriff's Homeless Community Outreach Team engaged with nearly 200 individuals over five days, revealing a stark reality: only one person accepted the resources offered. While the need for action is evident, the sheriff's office advocates for caution when considering jail as a response. According to Sergeant Amar Gandhi, for many individuals, jail might not be the right solution. However, it could serve as a temporary intervention, offering individuals a chance to pause and reevaluate their circumstances.

Keeping a Watchful Eye on San Diego

Sacramento's sheriff's office is closely monitoring the unfolding developments of San Diego's progressive enforcement strategy. This observation allows Sacramento officials to gauge the strategy's effectiveness and adapt it to their own challenges as necessary.

Community Advocates' Perspective

Community advocates, such as Bob Erlenbusch, voice concerns over the multifaceted reasons individuals might decline shelter or assistance. Erlenbusch underscores the potential influence of factors like claustrophobia, attachment to pets, or a desire to remain with a partner.

In response to these concerns, a spokesperson from Councilmember Whitburn's office assured that housing and shelter provisions would prioritize individual, non-congregant arrangements, ensuring that people are not separated from their pets.

As San Diego's strategy unfolds, its impact will be closely watched by various stakeholders, striving to strike a balance between enforcement and compassionate intervention in addressing the complex issue of homelessness.