Manchester takes new approach to panhandling

The Union Leader reports that the Manchester Police Department will start focusing on drivers who violate the rules of the road to give money to panhandlers.

In a public letter Police Chief Nick Willard noted that panhandling is not itself illegal, but it is "the number one complaint I receive from the Manchester community."

Willard said that the police will ticket panhandlers who dart into the road to accept donations, and will ticket drivers who stop at green lights to give panhandlers money.

Supporters argue that targeting donors, not just panhandlers, will help discourage panhandling. While drivers who give may have good intentions, panhandlers are likely to spend the money on drugs or alcohol. Rather than give to panhandlers, police encourage drivers to give to social service organizations trying to address underlying problems of homelessness, drug addiction, and mental illness.

Opponents argue that drivers should not be punished for a charitable act. A public awareness campaign could work just as well to discourage drivers from giving to panhandlers.

Do you support a policy of actively ticketing motorists who stop at a green light to give money to a panhandler? Share your opinion in the comments below.