Panhandling Alternative "Giving" Option
Fort Wright, KY (December 12, 2023) – The City of Fort Wright has received numerous complaints concerning panhandling that is occurring in the vicinity of the I-75 and I-275 Interstate ingress/egress ramps. The nature of the complaints are varied and range from safety related matters, accumulated trash and debris, animal cruelty, to unnecessary traffic backups and delays. Additionally, many have inquired about how they can safely offer additional assistance to those in need. As a result, here is some important information we'd like to share with you about Panhandling in the Fort Wright Community and how you can make a difference to those in need.
- Begging for money or goods in a public space is legal in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and in a 2017 ruling the Kentucky Supreme Court declared panhandling is a form of free speech protected by the First Amendment; and
- Police Officers affiliated with the Fort Wright Police Department are in contact with those individuals who are panhandling in our community; and
- Panhandling is NOT a safe activity to engage in, and while panhandling is not against the law in Kentucky, panhandlers and well-intentioned citizens can pose a public safety hazard to themselves and others when participating in this type of activity; and
- We urge individuals to NOT give money or goods directly to panhandlers. In lieu of panhandling we encourage you to seek out entities and organizations who are set up specifically to help those less fortunate and donate to them directly, or you can donate directly here to Animal Services and Help for the Homeless by visiting Kenton Cares and making an online donation now!
If you have any question or concerns, please contact the Fort Wright Police Department at 859-331-1700 or via email at [email protected].
Thank you.
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Posted 12.13.2023