Sacramento District Attorney Files Lawsuit Against the State’s Capital Over Negligence in Addressing Homeless Encampments

Sacramento’s District Attorney, Thien Ho, has initiated legal proceedings against the city for its lack of action in cleaning up homeless encampments. During a recent press conference, Ho indicated that his office had previously requested the city enforce existing laws related to sidewalk blockages and develop new, professionally-managed campsites for the homeless.

Ho cautioned that the city is experiencing a “descent into disorder” and a “decline in the quality of daily life.”

According to the 2022 annual Point in Time count, Sacramento County had close to 9,300 homeless individuals, representing a 67% increase since 2019. About three-fourths of this population lack any form of shelter. Homeless tent communities have become increasingly conspicuous in cities throughout the United States, with California being a particularly noteworthy example, as it houses almost a third of the nation’s homeless population.

In August, Ho had warned that he would press charges against city officials if they failed to make necessary changes within a month. Responding to this, Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg accused Ho of exploiting the issue for political gains rather than collaborating with the city. Steinberg argued that the city has expanded emergency shelter options by adding 1,200 beds, enacted laws to safeguard sidewalks and educational institutions, and initiated affordable housing projects.

Steinberg conceded that people’s frustrations were legitimate, but termed Ho’s actions as mere “theatrical diversions.” He called for genuine cooperation from regional leaders instead of political maneuvering and legal actions.

Elected in 2022 with a mandate to tackle homelessness, Ho has urged the city to disclose real-time information on available shelter beds to law enforcement agencies. “This presents a unique chance for us to implement effective and efficient methods to remove chronically homeless individuals from our streets,” Ho commented.

Ho advocated for a multifaceted approach to solve the issue, which includes enforcing existing laws as well as launching new programs focused on mental health and addiction services. He also voiced support for a state bond measure aimed at constructing additional treatment facilities, which is scheduled for public vote next year.

The legal battle is further complicated by an earlier lawsuit filed by a homeless advocacy group, which led to a temporary federal court injunction against the city, prohibiting the removal of homeless camps during periods of extreme heat. Though the injunction has been lifted, the advocacy group is seeking its extension.

Furthermore, the legal counsel for the homeless coalition filed a complaint with the state bar this month, alleging that Ho overstepped his authority by urging the removal of encampments while the court order was active.

During his press conference, Ho also featured testimonies from residents who argue that the city is failing to allocate adequate resources to tackle homelessness. While critics maintain that these encampments are unhygienic, lawless, and restrict public access to spaces like sidewalks, advocates for the homeless argue that a true solution can only be found through significant investments in affordable housing and essential services. They also claim that enforcing camping bans and conducting sweeps of encampments only serve to further traumatize an already vulnerable population.

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More about Sacramento Homeless Encampments Lawsuit

• Sacramento County Annual Point in Time Count 2022
• Legal Proceedings Against Sacramento for Homeless Encampments
• Darrell Steinberg’s Response to Homelessness Lawsuit
• Thien Ho’s Press Conference on Homelessness Lawsuit
• Statewide Bond Measure for Treatment Facilities
• Federal Court Injunction on Homeless Camp Clearances
• Public Opinions on Homeless Encampments