LANCASTER, Pa. — The Lancaster City Bureau of Police is responding to community concerns with a promise to crack down on an increase of aggressive panhandling/harassment, trespassing, various ordinance violations and other suspicious activities taking place.
Officers say they have seen an uptick in calls for service related to these issues, particularly in the downtown investment district. They noted that asking for money is protected by the First Amendment, but a City of Lancaster ordinance prohibits aggressive panhandling behaviors such as following, making physical contact without consent, blocking safe passage, using abusive language and soliciting after refusal. Panhandling is also restricted on private property without permission, in public transit areas, parking lots and near restrooms, cafes or financial institutions.
The Bureau of Police says it has also been getting more calls about drug activity, specifically for overdoses connected to K2 and fentanyl substance abuse. K2 is a man-made synthetic cannabinoid created in a lab. It can contain various unknown chemicals, and the effects can vary significantly from batch to batch. K2 is also known as “synthetic marijuana.” However, it is a far more unpredictable and dangerous drug than natural cannabis, police said.
"These challenges are straining public resources among first responders which include police, fire, and EMS, and significantly reducing the health and safety of our public spaces in the downtown area," officers said. "We are actively working to address and reduce these concerns through increased proactive enforcement and collaboration with community partners."
Authorities say anyone struggling with addiction can visit FindTreatment.gov or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for 24/7 treatment and referral information.
