During the entire month of September, the eradication of “crime camps” in the city of Wheeling has been a debated issue in the Friendly City this past week. Wheeling’s Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger submitted a recommendation to remove four encampments at the beginning of August, and it was approved by his superiors.
So, the police chief moved forward and was soon to erase inhabitants of camps who have been found to committing crimes. Chief Schwertfeger told LEDE News that he is not in favor of displacing law-abiding citizens,” but individuals committing crimes? They may get away with the activity for a short time, but as the reports pour in, the data tells the story for Schwertfeger.
Understandably, representatives of local non-profits whose mission it is to help the homeless in a number of different ways have reacted to the upcoming dismantling of the encampments on October 2, and following a federal ruling that established the steps the city must take now and in the future; the House of Hagar’s Kate Marshall told a reporter from WTRF-TV7 the following:
“It’s very hard to get tents right now because of COVID. So, after the destruction of a tent, we don’t know when we can replace that tent. We do have some amazing agencies that are able to offer certain individuals housing or shelter spaces, but there are barriers that don’t allow it to benefit everybody who’s experiencing homelessness in our community.”
The Solution
So, to the folks who might have to vacate the properties on which you live now, it is our suggestion that in order for you not to get caught in the middle of this tent shortage, dismantle yours, place it back in the vinyl carrier it came in, and take it with you when you leave on or before October 2. That way, no matter where your next resting place may be, at least you still have the shelter if necessary. After all, it’s a personal belonging just as your clothes are, so you have every right to take it with you.
So, take the tent, too.
Sincerely,
The Common Sense Club
