FORT WORTH, Texas — A targeted effort to remove homeless encampments along East Lancaster Avenue has led to improvements in safety, according to Fort Worth police, though some city council members are voicing concerns over the approach.
In a briefing to the Public Safety Committee this week, officials explained that East Lancaster attracts a large population of people experiencing homelessness because many city resources are concentrated in the area.
Deputy Chief Buck Wheeler emphasized that the effort is not aimed at displacing homeless residents, but rather ensuring lawful conduct and connecting them to services.
Police noted that the area also draws crime from outsiders, including prostitution and drug activity. “It’s not so much the homeless people, it’s the people that are coming down here and preying on them,” said Lt. Michael Brown of the HOPE Unit.
Since January 23, city departments have spent over $157,000 to clean up 265 illegal encampments and assist individuals in accessing resources. Chief Eddie Garcia highlighted that East Lancaster ranks as the city’s top area for violent crimes such as aggravated assault and robbery, underscoring the need for intervention.
Council members are weighing both the public safety improvements and the social impact of the clean-up initiative.
