Winter Haven Responds to Florida AG's Accusations on Homelessness Law

Winter Haven's Defense Against AG's Claims

• 🏙️ The City of Winter Haven has denied accusations made by Florida Attorney General James Umeer regarding violations of a state law that bans public camping and sleeping.
• ⚖️ The Attorney General accused the city of allowing public spaces to be taken over by the homeless, which he stated is a violation of a 2024 state law.

AG's Concerns and Reasoning

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Umeer stated that enforcing the law is crucial for maintaining a safe environment for families, particularly concerning children playing in parks.
• ⚠️ He expressed concerns about individuals who may be inebriated, suffering from mental health issues, or exhibiting violent tendencies in public spaces near children.
• 📍 The AG's office received a complaint regarding violations at Kani Park and sidewalks along Central Avenue.

City's Interpretation of the Law

• 🧐 Winter Haven's response letter claims the complainant misunderstood the state law.
• 🚫 According to the city, it is not illegal for someone to fall asleep in public; the law is specifically against sleeping or camping overnight.
• 📸 Evidence like blankets or tents is needed to prove intent to sleep or camp overnight, and the city argues that many pictures submitted did not meet this threshold.
• private property issues were also cited as beyond the police's removal authority.

Homelessness Trends in Winter Haven

• 📉 The city asserts that, based on DCF statistics, homelessness is on the decline in Winter Haven and its surrounding areas.
• 🗣️ Umeer emphasized the importance of enforcing laws that are put on the books, suggesting that some jurisdictions are not doing an adequate job.
• 🤝 He indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue to bring cities into compliance with the law.