Readers React: We have special veterans courts — why not try homelessness courts?
To the editor: We must end the vicious cycle of homelessness, debt and jail through creative strategies, as demonstrated by the success of ImagineLA, a program that provides permanent solutions to family homelessness.
The revolving door of debt and jail described in the Feb. 4 article, “Huge increase in arrests of homeless in L.A. — but mostly for minor offenses,” must end. I propose that we form homelessness courts.
In these courtrooms, a compassionate judge can resolve tickets in a reasonable manner and offer a panoply of services to these “defendants.” Additionally, if someone needs mental health assistance, it would immediately be available.
We have established veterans treatment courts to allow former servicemembers to receive treatment instead of jail time. Furthermore, nonprofit organizations such as the Community Veterans Justice Project work with veterans to ensure that they are aware of all the services they need.
Why not try a Los Angeles County homelessness court and put an end to the revolving door of debt and jail?
Gayle Greco, Los Angeles
Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook
A cure for the common opinion
Get thought-provoking perspectives with our weekly newsletter.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
