Colorado Springs, CO – More than 30 individuals were detained Tuesday afternoon following a homeless camp sweep at Dorchester Park, located on South Nevada Avenue, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD). The operation, which took place around 1 p.m., came after multiple complaints about illegal camping and trespassing at the park.
CSPD reported that several individuals were cited for various violations during the sweep. Five people received citations for trespassing, four were cited for camping in parks, one for a waterway ticket, and two for narcotics-related offenses. In addition, officers were able to clear one felony warrant and 16 misdemeanor warrants. Eight individuals were taken into custody and transported to the Criminal Justice Center.
The sweep also involved a significant cleanup effort. Park Rangers, working alongside CSPD, hauled away a large amount of waste, including one dump truck load and two truckloads of trash. The department further reported that eight camps were posted for future cleanup.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts by Colorado Springs authorities to address concerns related to illegal camping and maintain public spaces. While such sweeps are intended to address quality of life issues, they often raise questions about the resources available for those displaced by the enforcement actions.
As of now, CSPD has not provided any updates on whether additional sweeps will take place or what further assistance will be offered to those affected.
