Description
Can the town/police please do something about the panhandlers at the intersection of Main St and Elm St. Earlier today there was a car involved in what someone reported as a roll over accident. Not sure if the panhandlers were partly to blame but they definitely create a safety hazard when they walk between cars aggressively staring at you looking for money. They're usually out there when school is getting out and remain there until after rush hour. Not only does it become a safety issue but they also tie traffic up by standing in the way of cars trying to clear the intersection. Other times they stand at the widows of cars while the driver fumbles to find change to put in the bucket and then the light goes from green to red. This has happened to me on several occasions and has created a longer commute time often times infuriating me and the other drivers on the road. There must be something the police can do or some type of law that prevents people from standing in the street creating a hazard and blocking traffic.
8 Comments
Stoneham Police Department (Registered User)
Lookout77 (Registered User)
Mike (Registered User)
I am not sure exactly which charity was involved or how legitimate an organization it is. Regardless, I think the town policy of allowing solicitation while walking in traffic should be reviewed. Years ago, it seem to be not so much of an issue. But the traffic is much heavier now and with the amount of distracted drivers on the road, the added distraction of pedestrians walking in the traffic creates an added danger.
I am all for giving to charity and support many organizations. However I feel there is a time and place for everything. Distracting drivers while they are trying to negotiate rush hour traffic and all the other hazards driving entails, is not the time or place.
Thank you for reviewing this issue.
Mike
DSW (Registered User)
Mae (Registered User)
Guest (Guest)
I don't think there is anything Stoneham can do about this. Worcester and Lowell lost big lawsuits trying to restrict panhandling.
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/2016/01/12/worcester-lowell-face-high-fees-after-losing-lawsuits-unconstitutional-panhandling-ordinances/yHFQl1dJY2HYDGg8r9As7J/story.html
A-Nonie-mous (Registered User)
Closed Stoneham Police Department (Registered User)