Phoenix Police Department seeks community input for homelessness policy

PHOENIX — Community members who want to influence how the Phoenix Police Department engages with people experiencing homelessness have an opportunity to shape policy for a limited time.

On Friday, the department announced it is seeking public feedback on its new “Interacting with Individuals Experiencing Homelessness” policy.

The proposed policy, released for review, outlines how officers should conduct themselves when reporting encampments, handling the personal property of people who don’t have a home and interacting with unsheltered people overall.

It has not been finalized because the department hopes to incorporate community perspectives during a 30-day comment period.

Through Saturday, Dec. 13, the public is encouraged to review the policy and share input.

At the end of the six-page document, a blue button labeled “Click here to provide feedback” links to a Microsoft Forms survey that asks respondents to review specific sections and indicate whether the policy is clear, comprehensive, appropriately guides officers about what to do and more.

Police will review and consider all comments before finalizing the policy.

Related

“Today” show host Savannah Guthrie begs for “someone to come forward” in her mother’s disappearanceGreat Wolf Lodge looks to expand resort with additional towerMaricopa County Library District celebrates opening of new West Valley branchBygone mall favorite Hot Dog on a Stick plans return to ArizonaCentral Arizona Project president says feds ‘bought the lies’ on Colorado River planGlendale Police ask for help identifying car involved in hit-and-run that killed bicyclist