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11/11/2024 9:12:50 PM
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Join Us for Las Cruces' Inaugural Shopping Cart Take-Back Day: A Community Effort Before New Ordinance Enforcement Begins!


Join Us for Las Cruces' Inaugural Shopping Cart Take-Back Day: A Community Effort Before New Ordinance Enforcement Begins!

Shopping Cart Take-Back Day: A Compassionate Approach to a Community Challenge

In an innovative move to combat shopping cart theft and displacement, the Las Cruces Police Department is hosting its inaugural Shopping Cart Take-Back Day today, October 10. This initiative is part of a broader effort to educate the community ahead of the enforcement of a new ordinance that aims to tackle this growing issue.

The New Ordinance: What You Need to Know

Passed by the Las Cruces City Council in August, the new law will officially come into effect on October 16. Here’s a breakdown of its key components:

  • Shopping Cart Management Plan: Businesses must submit a plan detailing how they will manage shopping carts.
  • Petty Misdemeanor Charges: Individuals found in possession of shopping carts outside of business premises could face fines, jail time, or community service.

Understanding the Community's Needs

According to Lt. Joy Wiitala of the Las Cruces Police Department, the ordinance is not solely about punishment. It also aims to provide support for individuals who may be using shopping carts for personal reasons, especially within the unhoused community.

“We want to take into account not just the community concerns in reference to the stolen carts, which is important, but also the community concerns when it comes to the population groups that are in possession of those carts as well,” Wiitala stated.

A Day of Redemption and Understanding

During the Take-Back Day, residents are encouraged to return shopping carts they may have inadvertently taken. This event will provide a penalty-free opportunity for return, and in exchange, officers will offer alternatives such as wagons or backpacks for belongings if needed.

Wiitala emphasized the importance of understanding the stories of individuals who may find themselves in possession of shopping carts. “Every individual that’s potentially going to be in possession of these carts is going to have some type of story, some type of backstory,” she explained. “As officers, we want to take a look at what that story is and how we’re addressing it the best that we can.”

Looking Ahead

The city has scheduled a second Take-Back Day on October 15, just before the ordinance is enforced. Both events will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., providing ample opportunity for community members to participate.

Join the Conversation

As the community navigates this new ordinance, it’s essential to engage in discussions about its implications. What are your thoughts on this initiative? Here are some questions to ponder:

What do you think?

  • Do you believe the ordinance will effectively reduce shopping cart theft?
  • How can the community better support unhoused individuals who rely on shopping carts?
  • Is it fair to impose penalties on individuals found with shopping carts outside businesses?
  • What alternatives could be provided to those in need, besides what is currently offered?
  • How can businesses improve their shopping cart management to prevent theft and displacement?

Your opinions matter! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Emily Chen
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Emily Chen

Emily Chen is a dynamic multimedia journalist known for her insightful reporting and engaging storytelling. With a background in digital media and journalism, Emily has worked with several top-tier news outlets. Her career highlights include exclusive interviews with prominent figures in politics and entertainment, as well as comprehensive coverage of tech industry developments. Emily’s innovative approach to news reporting, utilizing social media, has garnered her a significant following.

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