Savannah is attractive to the homeless.

It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a temperate year-round climate, and three medical facilities (one with a dental facility) in the downtown area. Bridges on either side of Downtown provide shelter and shade; numerous facilities feed and clothe those in need; and a generous network of homeless services all draw homeless individuals to the area. These services and facilities are well known throughout the Southeast. Downtown Precinct Officers have encountered numerous individuals that claim law enforcement agencies and court systems have purchased them one way tickets to Savannah. On a recent Friday, I encountered a female that claimed a South Carolina agency drove her here because she was drunk and disorderly. Downtown Precinct Officers perceive a growing number of homeless in town. They are straining the services currently in place. We also see a rise in criminality associated with the homeless ranging from robbery to assaults, burglary, and thefts. Last week, a homicide involving a homeless female and a male suspect was reported. Chief Willie Lovett has challenged my precinct to address this growing concern sensitively, effectively and professionally. Being homeless makes the individual statistically more likely to be both a victim and a suspect of crime. Our officers respect and understand that many have been the victim of unfortunate circumstances and are attempting to return to a stable living situation. As police, we will protect their rights and support their efforts. However, some have chosen to disregard the services offered and have turned to crime. We will not allow them to infringe on the rights of residents and visitors to the Downtown area. Beginning immediately, Officers are directed to take a zero tolerance stance on crimes committed by homeless. Previously Officers dealt with these issues as they presented themselves. Now I am asking Officers to seek out and address these problems. I am also asking for your help. Specific actions can assist our efforts, assist the homeless, and improve the quality of life Downtown for all. Reports of Aggressive Panhandling have increased. Providing money to individuals that aggressively panhandle reinforces the behavior and increases the likelihood the behavior will continue. Many panhandle to support drug and alcohol habits. Donating to a service organization instead, makes a broader impact and turns the aggressive panhandler towards services more likely to help. Use caution when dealing with someone you dont know regardless of their appearance. Avoid confrontation and contact police if necessary. Some homeless have knocked on doors asking to perform small jobs (usually yard work). This may seem to facilitate a return to employment. More often, this leads to the individual returning repeatedly and just asking for money. There are organizations

here that employ the homeless to perform these types of tasks. It is safer and more beneficial to the homeless to utilize these resources. A deal on the potted plant by the person that just knocked on your door may not be. That plant likely came from one of your neighbors and next week will be gone and sold to someone else. Buying items from someone going door to door encourages theft Do not allow your property to be used to camp, loiter, or store belongings. Homeless sometimes use alcoves and overhangs for storage, possibly without the owners knowledge. Police will gladly check your property if requested. Restrict access to water spigots and electrical outlets on your property. Such facilities are available to the homeless elsewhere Downtown.
Do

not allow deliveries to sit unattended.

Palm rose dealers are unique to Savannah. Some are permitted vendors and others are not. Permitted vendors are not allowed to ask for money for a palm rose and must rely on donations. These dealers can make upwards of $250 a day. If you (or your guest) are inclined to purchase a palm rose, do so from a licensed vendor. Their permit should be clearly displayed.
Call

police if you ever feel threatened by anyone any reason.

Homelessness is a complex issue with no easy solutions but being homeless is not a crime. Downtown Precinct officers focus on a persons actions and not their address. Our officers are trained and have information to divert those who want help to the appropriate source. It is our goal to have a safe and secure Savannah for residents and visitors. Please work with us to address those who choose not to respect the rights of others.