Bonham Police Department on Tuesday addressed ongoing complaints and concerns regarding homeless individuals taking shelter around Bonham.
“We are aware of the behaviors that are repulsive in nature, however, these are only Class “C” Misdemeanors allowing for citation to be issued, we have done this. We have made arrests for violations of the law where they were incarcerated until released affording only a temporary resolution, as they will be back on the streets,” said Bonham PD.
Pertaining to Class “C” Misdemeanor arrests, they are required to be released the next day with a court date, but police say, again, they are back on the streets the following day.
“We have contacted family members to attempt to reconnect them and were advised that they too have tried everything, some of them very extensively, to help their family members but they choose this lifestyle. We have attempted to encourage them to go to the shelters for their health and safety and provided them the transportation to get there, but they choose to stay there.”
Police say while these individuals may suffer from addictions and /or mental health issues with “questionable behaviors,” they are still intelligent and very aware of their civil rights as verbally expressed by them and they cannot lawfully make a person leave the city, as frequently asked.
As homeowners or business owners, you can request a criminal trespass on these individuals from your property or business but this does not include the public common areas in front of the business. Once a trespass has been issued, it becomes a Class “A” Misdemeanor – if the individual returns and it gets reported.
“Again, this is not a permanent solution but one that affords a longer time off the street, but they will eventually return. We understand the city is growing and the square is revitalizing but with growth comes new obstacles and frustration to everyone, but we simply cannot make things happen that are not lawful. We will continue to address these individuals to encourage their behaviors for the better and to offer assistance in resolving their status but if they choose not to take it, we cannot force it.”
