LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Editor's note: WHAS11 Interviewed Rep. Jared Bauman under the impression that zero arrests or citations had been issued as of this date. After the interview, LMPD responded and said three arrests and seven citations had been issued. We did not re-interview Rep. Bauman with this information.
For the first time, the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) is releasing information in regards to the recently implemented Safer Kentucky Act.
Sgt. Matt Sanders explained LMPD has made three arrests and cited seven others for street camping since the law went into effect on July 15. According to the bill's writer and sponsor, Kentucky Rep. Jared Bauman, the idea of the bill is to "support Kentucky citizens with the highest levels of safety, security, and protection possible."
But not everybody is on board with this new law.
"If they didn't want people to go to jail then why did you put that in there? If they wanted to help people, then why aren't you pushing the state to get more money for more affordable housing?" Ronnie "Pony" Morris, with Vocal Kentucky, asked.
These questions that were floating around Vocal Kentucky during a busy Wednesday afternoon. Tens of residents were using the services, like getting food, using the bathroom, and getting sleep.
Morris pointed out what he thought was a missing step in the process to rehab houseless residents.
"If they go to jail for being homeless, they get out, they're still homeless," he said, adding that the law doesn't mention what happens after they come out of jail besides putting them back on the street with nowhere to go.
However, Bauman clarified his intent when writing the bill.
"[It's] not to take punitive measures against that population, the intent is to support those folks with the help and treatment that they need," he said.
As for the outcome of those arrested, it's left in the hands of the courts.
Judges will decide if they'll face a fine, community service or jail time.
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