Fort Worth police issued more than 300 citations and made 29 arrests this year as part of a heightened effort to curb panhandling across the city, according to a new municipal report.
The Police Department increased enforcement in 2024 by posting roadside signs discouraging panhandling and launching special operations targeting high-traffic corridors. In August, the city installed signs reading, “It’s O.K. to say no to panhandlers,” directing motorists instead to local nonprofits that serve people experiencing homelessness.
The West Division reported the heaviest enforcement activity, issuing 93 citations and making 18 arrests in October alone. Officers there focused on business districts where police received about 200 panhandling-related calls for service.
The Central Division issued 178 citations between Jan. 8 and Sept. 26, with most panhandling activity concentrated along Lancaster Avenue and near highway exits, the report said.
The Northwest Division also logged a high number of encampments. During a targeted effort in August, officers made seven arrests and worked with the city’s HOPE team to connect people living in encampments with social services.
All police divisions reported clusters of panhandlers in major corridors but noted that factors such as population density, commercial development and transportation access influenced activity levels.
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