Portland’s New Rules for Homeless: Fines and Jail Time for Campers Rejecting Shelter

In response to the growing number of homeless encampments, Portland, Oregon, has implemented new rules that could result in fines or jail time for homeless individuals who refuse offers of shelter. The ordinance, which received unanimous approval from the City Council, aims to balance the need for public safety with the challenges of addressing homelessness. Those who choose to accept shelter will not be penalized, but those who reject offers and engage in certain prohibited behaviors, such as blocking sidewalks or starting fires, could face penalties of up to $100 or seven days in jail.

Portland City Council Weighs Competing Plans for Addressing Homeless Camps

Portland City Council members are considering two competing plans that would govern enforcement of homeless camps on city property. Mayor Ted Wheeler’s proposal would empower the city to arrest people for illegal camping on public property, but only if shelter is available and the person refuses to accept it. Commissioner Rene Gonzalez’s counterproposal would ban camps on all public property regardless of shelter availability and give the mayor unilateral authority to change how the camping ban is enforced.

Portland’s Fentanyl Crisis: Homeless Mother Gives Birth in Tent, Baby Remains Hospitalized

A homeless woman addicted to fentanyl gave birth in her tent near a fire station two weeks ago. The baby remains in the hospital, while the mother is back on the streets. Doctors say the use of fentanyl in pregnancy has increased in recent years, and they are still learning how to treat newborns withdrawing from the drug. A team of Multnomah County outreach workers continues to try and help the mother, but she has declined their offers of treatment and housing.

Man Found Dead in Northeast Portland Shooting

Police are investigating the suspicious death of a man found dead in Northeast Portland’s Hazelwood neighborhood Wednesday morning. Officers responded to reports of a shooting at a home on Northeast Everett Court, near Northeast 97th Avenue, and found the man dead upon arrival. The victim’s name and cause of death have not been released, and investigators have not disclosed any information about the evidence found at the scene. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact Detective JD McGuire or Detective Brent Christensen with the Portland Police Bureau.

Professional Boxing Returns to Portland’s Cross Insurance Arena After 30 Years

On June 15, professional boxing will make a triumphant return to Portland’s Cross Insurance Arena, marking a historic event for the city. The main event will feature a thrilling World Boxing Organization bantamweight title fight between champion Dylan Price and challenger Paul Hayo. This momentous occasion will also showcase local boxing talent, including Portland’s Casey Streeter, Zordan Holman of Westbrook, Ilyas Bashir of Auburn, and Brandon Berry of West Forks.

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