Las Cruces, New Mexico recently made headlines after a homeless woman was reportedly forced to remove her belongings from a shopping cart by a business claiming ownership. This incident occurred shortly after the city council approved an ordinance aimed at addressing the issue of stolen shopping carts in the community. The situation sparked controversy and drew public attention to the treatment of homeless individuals in the area.
Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story spoke out about the incident, stating that the department had reached out to the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope for more information. Initially, it was believed that the business involved was Albertsons, but after investigation, it was determined that none of the three stores in Las Cruces were responsible. Chief Story emphasized that there was no concrete evidence to prove the alleged incident, highlighting the complexities of the situation.
Chief Story also addressed the challenges he faced in implementing the shopping cart ordinance, which aims to hold businesses accountable for cart retrieval and maintenance. He expressed frustration with the misconceptions surrounding the ordinance and urged the community to focus on the facts rather than misinformation. Despite facing pushback, Chief Story remains committed to addressing the shopping cart issue and ensuring the well-being of all residents in Las Cruces.
Nicole Martinez, the Executive Director of the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope, corroborated the homeless woman’s experience, stating that her staff witnessed the incident and provided support to the individuals involved. Martinez explained that the woman had found the abandoned cart and did not take it from the business, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals experiencing poverty. She also mentioned that the clients chose not to file a police report due to their apprehension about interacting with law enforcement.
Chief Story clarified that businesses are only required to retrieve abandoned carts under the ordinance and should not forcibly remove belongings from individuals. He emphasized the importance of following proper procedures and ensuring the safety and rights of all community members. The shopping cart ordinance is scheduled to go into effect on October 16, aiming to address the issue of abandoned carts and promote responsible cart management among businesses.
Overall, the incident in Las Cruces sheds light on the challenges faced by homeless individuals and the importance of compassionate and respectful treatment in the community. It serves as a reminder of the need for collaboration between law enforcement, social services, and businesses to address complex issues effectively. By working together, Las Cruces can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents.