A recent eviction of a homeless encampment in Berkeley has sparked controversy after police conducted a sweep without advance notice to residents. This action, deemed a violation of due process by a judge, involved officers using smoke-emitting devices which created fear among the unhoused individuals. Despite a city spokesperson's reassurances about the notice given in January, Judge Chen challenged the city’s rationale for proceeding without prior warning, hinting at possible misconduct. Mayor Adena Ishii acknowledged the distressing nature of the video depicting the incident, urging a reconsideration of the city's approach to handling such vulnerable populations.
Yesica Prado, who recorded the incident, noted that police threatened residents with less lethal devices during the early morning sweep, causing panic among the encampment dwellers.
Mayor Adena Ishii commented on the upsetting video circulating online, highlighting the traumatic impact of the sweep on vulnerable individuals living in the encampment.
Deputy City Attorney Laura Iris Mattes defended the city’s actions, stating they provided notice for five months and allowed residents to leave voluntarily.
Judge Chen questioned the city’s reasoning for not providing adequate notice, suggesting it might have been to circumvent intervention by the court.
Collection
[
|
...
]