The difficult economic times are driving up panhandling numbers on Jacksonville streets according to experts. Even city council members are noticing.
“You’re going to have an innocent, law abiding citizen now who’s killed somebody or gotten into an accident. So we have to address these problems,” Ferraro said.“As government, our first job is to protect our citizens. To have kids roaming around intersections and roadways — that’s not keeping people safe.”
According to Jacksonville’s city ordinance, it is illegal to solicit money on the side of the road without a permit. However, JSO said its hands are tied afterThe court ruled the state’s law on panhandling unconstitutional because it violated First Amendment rights. Ferraro is now drafting legislation with Council Member Kevin Carrico and city attorneys that would go around that court ruling. He said the state is also working on putting up “no trespassing” signs at overpasses that would give officers more legal backing for enforcement.
Action News Jax’s Law & Safety Expert Dale Carson, a criminal defense lawyer, said panhandlers could also get a citation for obstructing traffic when they step into the street to get money. Ferraro said its best not to give out cash on the side of the road. He said to instead direct individuals to the resources available and donate to Jacksonville non-profits dedicated to helping.
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