Homeless Encampments

• NCJ Number: 231263
• Author(s): Sharon Chamard
• Date Published: January 2010
• Length: 76 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2007-CK-WX-K008
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS)
• Sale Source: Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS)
• Publication Format: Book (Softbound)
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Problem-Oriented Guides for Police Problem-Specific Guides Series No. 56

Annotation

This publication examines the problem-oriented policing of homeless encampments, also known as transient camps.

Abstract

Homeless encampments are only one aspect of the larger set of problems related to homelessness, street life, and public disorder. This guide summarizes knowledge about how police can reduce the harm caused by specific crime and disorder problems and is written specifically for police. Homeless encampments are only one aspect of the larger set of the problems related to homelessness, street life, and public disorder. This guide does not cover all aspects of homelessness, only those that pertain to the small proportion of homeless people who live in encampments. The guide begins by describing the problem and reviewing factors that contribute to the overall situation. It then identifies a series of questions to help law enforcement analyze their local problem. Finally, it reviews responses to the problem and what is known about them from evaluative research and police practice. Appendix, endnotes, and references