This issue of flyers being left on cars and homes comes up frequently.  The best course of action to prevent this from continuing is to tell all your friends and neighbors to call the business listed on the flyer and tell them you will no longer do business with them if they continue with this type of marketing.  I agree the City becomes littered with these flyers.  Often times, it’s the car owner who gets frustrated and throws the flyer to the ground and unfortunately they would be the ones “littering” and not the person who left the flyer.  So again, make it a point to call the business and let them know of your displeasure.  Respectfully, Greg Savelli  Chief of Police

The law only prohibits “aggressive” pan handling.  In other words, if they block your path, or intimidate you into giving them money we can take enforcement action.  It is our recommendation not to give them money directly.  If their sign says they are hungry, and you want to help, buy them food.  If carrying a baby and you feel like helping them, buy the diapers or baby items.  DO NOT give anyone cash!   This type of activity rises during the holidays as people are in the giving mood and/or they feel guilty after spending money on gifts and find these people in the parking lot.  This is their plan!  So do not react to it.  In general we suggest people support the valid charities that help the homeless & disadvantaged, (Salvation Army, Local Churches etc.) and do not give directly to the person asking.   Greg

The law only prohibits “aggressive” pan handling.  In other words, if they block your path, or intimidate you into giving them money we can take enforcement action.  It is our recommendation not to give them money directly.  If their sign says they are hungry, and you want to help, buy them food.  If carrying a baby and you feel like helping them, buy the diapers or baby items.  DO NOT give anyone cash!   This type of activity rises during the holidays as people are in the giving mood and/or they feel guilty after spending money on gifts and find these people in the parking lot.  This is their plan!  So do not react to it.  In general we suggest people support the valid charities that help the homeless & disadvantaged, (Salvation Army, Local Churches etc.) and do not give directly to the person asking.   Greg

    Vidal was part of a subscription-selling crew from out of state. Such operations have been drawing increased police scrutiny.
     About 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Vidal knocked on the woman's door and she agreed to buy magazines. While she went to get money, Vidal waited on the sidewalk, said Senior Lead Officer Dennis Cunningham. But when she returned and told him she had changed her mind, he forced his way into her home, hit her repeatedly in the head and tried to rape her in the entryway to her home. The victim fought back by scratching and choking him....     Criminals are increasingly joining the crews so they can case neighborhoods, burglarize homes, or pocket the cash from subscription sales, he said.