CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Charlotte city ordinances took effect Wednesday that recriminalize behaviors that some people say will disproportionately harm homeless people.
City laws regarding sleeping on benches, public defecation, panhandling, public drinking, public masturbation and trespassing on a motor vehicle are once again arrestable offenses starting March 1. They were previously only punishable by citation.
“Most of these we feel will be in response to calls for service and we certainly are not going out there with the intent or purpose of arrest but rather to gain compliance, to educate, hopefully to provide resources," explained CMPD Lieutenant, Kevin Pietrus.
Charlotte City Council voted 7-3 to recriminalize those behaviors in February. The vote came after several people said it is immoral and unethical to arrest people for relieving themselves outside or sleeping outside when the city isn't providing adequate alternatives. The debate lasted for hours with many people worrying the laws will unfairly target homeless residents.
“I used to hold myself overnight because I had nowhere to go,” James Lee, who used to be homeless, said. "I did put myself in the situation, OK, but still, as a citizen I should be respected enough to have a place to go."
People on the other side of the issue say it's a matter of basic decency.
"We moved here because it was safe, clean, and had an opportunity," one man added. "But, today, it’s far less safe and far less clean.”
The city installed two public port-a-potties in Uptown. City leaders also chose to invest in a mobile shower and bathroom unit they hope to deploy in the next couple of months.
Contact Anna King at aking2@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the many issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.