The Lino Lakes Police Department occasionally receives calls and questions regarding the legality of panhandling. The courts have ruled that in most instances panhandling is protected by the first amendment as a form of protected speech. This means individuals are permitted to passively stand and display a sign while on public property.
However, there are instances when specific conduct associated with panhandling may be illegal. This includes:
- Standing on the roadway soliciting contributions from a vehicle.
- Engaging in aggressive or disorderly conduct.
Examples include:
- Intentionally interfering with or blocking pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
- Touching someone without their consent in a way that causes fear of immediate bodily harm.
- Repeatedly asking or following someone after they have declined to offer money.
- Using obscene or abusive language toward someone while panhandling.
ADVICE FOR MOTORISTS AND RESIDENTS
- Do not provide money to panhandlers. Politely say no or sorry.
- Consider donating to organizations that provide resources.
- Keep your vehicle windows rolled up.
- Call 911 if you witness aggressive conduct or someone interfering with traffic.
AVAILABLE RESOURCES
There are alternatives for residents and motorists who feel compelled to provide money or other resources to panhandlers. Consider donating to local organizations that provide food resources, housing needs, and access to physical and mental health needs. A few options are:
- Centennial Community Food Shelf: Provides food resources. Serves the Lino Lakes, Blaine, Centerville, Circle Pines, and Lexington areas.
- Hope for the Community: Provides food resources to families in Anoka County.
- Stepping Stone Emergency Housing: Provides shelter for homeless youth and adults in the five-county area of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Scott and Washington counties.
- Alexandra House: Provides advocacy and shelter for victims of violence.
- The Salvation Army: Operates a food shelf and family homeless prevention program out of the Anoka County Human Services Center.
- Hope 4 Youth: Provides basic needs such as meals, clothing, and assistance finding stable housing for youth.
- United Way 2-1-1: Provides referrals to community resources and assistance for a variety of needs. Call 211, or 651-291-0211. 211 is available 24 hours a day, every day.
OPTIONS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS AND PROPERTY OWNERS
Businesses and property owners can order panhandlers off their property and issue them a verbal or written trespass notice. If you are a business and want assistance with the process, please call 911 to speak with an officer.