Five arrests were made during an operation conducted by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office’s Homeless Assistance Resource Team and the Rancho Crime Suppression Team as part of a multi-agency response to illegal homeless encampments, it was announced Friday.
The operation was conducted on Wednesday in Spring Valley, with 14 citations issued for various offenses that include excessive trash and debris originating from motor homes parked in a residential neighborhood. Three vehicles also were towed, the agency reported.
Officials said sheriff’s deputies had offered resources to people in the area experiencing homelessness, including shelter, mental health services and substance abuse treatment.
“The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to a balanced approach of outreach and enforcement, working closely with community partners to connect individuals in need with available services while addressing criminal activity that impacts public safety,” the agency said in a statement.
The department conducted another encampment operation, in Lakeside and unincorporated El Cajon, July 16, making four arrests and issuing 30 citations.
Authorities urged the public to report suspected criminal activity to the sheriff’s office at 858-868-3200.
