- 11/11/2024 4:53:37 PM
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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.
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:
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.
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.”
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.
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:
Your opinions matter! Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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