A Northshore mayor says there has been an increase in people begging for money in his town, but there isn't much they can do, other than work with agencies that try to help.
In a recent e-blast to constituents, Covington Mayor Mark Johnson said there has been an increase in panhandlers around city streets, and shared Covington Police Chief Mike Ferrell's instructions to officers that they can't be arrested just for begging.
"We cannot ask them to leave. They are allowed to stand there and be present," said Lt. Edwin Masters with Covington Police.
Chief Ferrell told his officers Slidell recently had to pay a $25,000 judgment to a homeless woman for wrongfully arresting her for standing off to the side of the road.
For people who want to help, but not encourage more panhandling, Lt. Masters says there are agencies that can provide assistance.
"I believe the Giving Hope Retreat, which handle addiction and some homeless situations," said Masters, and the mayor's office mentioned the city of Mandeville's partnership with the Northshore Community Foundation.
