Guelph police report they have recently seen an increase in the number of calls about people panhandling.
"Citizens usually call the police because they are concerned for the well-being of the panhandler and are hoping we can provide resources and referrals to our community partners for shelter and services. Occasionally citizens call police because a verbal or physical altercation occurred during their interaction with the person panhandling," police said in a news release Friday.
They point out that there are no laws that prohibit panhandling, but the Provincial Safe Streets Act prohibits aggressive solicitation of a person at or near certain public places, including:
- Automated teller machines
- Pay telephones
- Taxi stands
- Public transit stops
- Public transit vehicles
- Parking lots
The Act also prohibits solicitation of a person:
- Getting into, out of, on or off a motor vehicle
- Who is in or on a stopped, standing or parked motor vehicle on a roadway
"The Guelph Police Service would like to remind the public that if you are approached by an individual either on foot or on a bicycle that your safety comes first. It is up to you if you wish to provide assistance. If not, simply say so no and walk away.
"If the individual becomes verbally aggressive or confrontational move to a safe area where others are present or back to your vehicle. You are encouraged to contact the Guelph Police Service and provide a detailed description of the individual. If the individual has left the area prior to police arrival, we will conduct a follow up investigation in an attempt to locate the person."
