Motorcycle officers to crack down on median panhandlers

OFF THE WIRE
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2010/jul/31/motorcycle-officers-crack-down-median-panhandlers Motorcycle officers to crack down on median panhandlers By Nathan Scharn, Staff Writer
Saturday, July 31, 2010 at 12:02 a.m.
NORTH COUNTY — Motorcycle officers will be keeping a closer eye on the medians in Carmel Valley, Rancho Bernardo and Carmel Mountain Ranch in response to complaints about panhandlers, San Diego police officials said.
The suburban neighborhoods often attract people who stand on the center dividers and try to collect money.
Standing on medians or panhandling is not illegal, but officers may cite those who step off into the street, posing a danger to themselves or motorists.
Motorcycle officers will lead the effort because car patrol officers are often occupied with other calls, leaving little time to crack down on “pedestrians who are leaving a place of safety,” police said.
“It’s a hazard not only for the people stepping into the street, but for the automobiles,” said Assistant Police Chief Boyd Long.
Patrols citywide have yielded about 25 citations, largely in Point Loma and Mission Valley, since the effort began July 21.
Police recommend that those who wish to donate money do so to a charitable organization.