Coalition Spotlight

Panhandling, Homeslessness and Drug Abuse

by Assistant Chief Annie Stevenson

As with any other jurisdiction, Greensboro is faced with the full spectrum of substance abuse and the behavior that is associated with that abuse. While the “War on Drugs”, specifically cocaine, seems to have taken the spotlight, the centuries old problem of alcoholism has not diminished.

A recent trend seen in Greensboro is the advent of panhandling; individuals occupying the corners of major intersections begging for money. When money is offered by a sympathetic motorist the panhandler enters the roadway, crossing multi-ple lanes of travel if necessary, to accept the dona-tion. The safety concerns surrounding this practice are obvious. The number of complaints received by the City as a result of the actions of the panhan-dlers was, here to for, unprecedented.

Ordinances were enacted to provide safety guidelines for the panhandlers who are participat-ing in a constitutionally protected activity. The Department’s Community Resource Teams were tasked with addressing the issues surrounding pan-handling. The ordinances enacted by Council provided for some structure of safety for the activity and for enforcement measures for non-compliance, but they do not address the root prob-lems.

Surveillance conducted by the Resource Teams showed that by and large once a panhandler had received sufficient funds, a trip was made to the nearest convenience store where alcohol was purchased and, shortly there after, consumed. Through surveillance and investigative encounters the Resource teams learned that the majority of the chronic panhandlers were abusers of alcohol, however the abuse and addiction to other drugs was also noted.

To compound the problem, many of the panhandlers are homeless, living in nearby woods, underpasses and abandoned buildings. To work towards a long term solution, the Resource Teams, in addition to taking any necessary law enforcement actions, provide information regard-ing available community assistance for those wanting help for drug abuse. The availability of these resources is reinforced with every contact with referrals and assistance provided when requested. In the past, through these contacts transportation to arranged housing has been provided, both in town and out of town; arrange-ments for new clothing has been coordinated and, where the individual has been willing, arrange-ments have been made for drug abuse counseling.

Spotlight Photos