What are Police Doing About Panhandlers in Shrewsbury?

Shrewsbury residents driving down Route 9 toward Worcester may have seen the occasional panhandler near the White City Shopping Center, but according to the panhandlers have been in the area for years. However, some residents worry that a recent ban on "aggressive"panhandlers in Worcester may increase the problem in Shrewsbury.

“We have not seen an uptick recently but over the years have had to occasionally address panhandlers,” Pratt said in an email.

Since the Worcester ban was implemented in January four people have been arrested in the city. Shrewsbury officers, on the other hand, have focused their efforts on assisting the panhandlers and preventing accidents.

“Shrewsbury officers have had success in moving these people along and it has not resulted in us ever having to charge anyone,” Pratt said. “Depending on the individual circumstances the Shrewsbury Police will assist those in need to their support systems when possible.”

While there are two bylaws in Shrewsbury restricting panhandling in certain dangerous situations, a fine is likely to be the harshest punishment handed out, if any.

“For example if pan handlers are on the median strip or in roadways or intersections Chapter 85 Section17A prohibits soliciting for money on a state road and is punishable with a $50 fine. Shrewsbury town bylaw Article 9 Section 11 specifically addresses sidewalks, ‘Prohibits obstruction or loitering on sidewalks,’” Pratt said violating Article 9 Section 11 can lead to an arrest but has never been used.