Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti woke up to find his property had been vandalized following the signing of a new law that restricts homeless encampments throughout designated areas of the city. According to CBS LA, a crowd of about 50 people began protesting at the residence, which ended with dozens of officers responding in riot gear dispersing the crowd. In addition to trash and other debris left behind, the sidewalk had been graffitied and parts of the property were toilet papered.
The protestors were reportedly there to voice concerns over the new so-called anti-camping law Garcetti had signed earlier in the day. The law prohibits sleeping outdoors and making temporary shelter (like encampments) within 500 feet of schools, daycare facilities, parks, libraries and other locations throughout the city of Los Angeles.
Housing advocates are concerned that the new law criminalizes homelessness rather than offering solutions or safer shelter. The 2020 Greater L.A. Homeless Count, as noted by CBS LA, found some 66,433 people living on the streets if L.A. County. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, however, estimates there are currently enough shelter beds for only 40 percent of that population experiencing homelessness.
Just how the law will be carried out is still being determined. KCRW reports that most violations will be treated as infractions with possible fines. The ordinance notes that a “street engagement strategy” on homelessness will be deployed across the Los Angeles along with the new rules, involving trained professionals who can offer unhoused people shelter.
The ordinance preventing occupying and sleeping in certain areas of the city of L.A. will go into effect in 30 days.