What should you do if you and your family are in public at a store or on the riverfront or somewhere and you come across someone who is homeless? It might be an awkward encounter.
With weather getting warmer, the chances of an encounter goes up. Dixon Police Chief Steve Howell says this time of year the number of homeless passing through or deciding to stay goes up.
If you do meet one of these people, Chief Howell says to avoid confrontations or contact. He said if need be, call an officer to deal with it. There are PADS Shelters that might be able to help this individual.
Howell would like to remind the public that many of these people might have mental problems or substance abuse issues. Officers said Howell are trained to deal with these issues.
