For Immediate Release: 11/20/2015 4:01 pm
Worcester, MA (November 20, 2015) - We remain concerned about the public safety issues surrounding aggressive panhandling, particularly in median strips and other potentially dangerous places. This concern is not theoretical; earlier this year, a Worcester resident died after he was struck in the median. However, it has become clear that the ordinance is unlikely to be successfully defended in court. So, after weighing the pros and cons, and after consultation with the Worcester City Council, we have decided not to move forward with an appeal of Judge Hillman's ruling. We will continue to use existing ordinances to protect our residents, including those who engage in panhandling.
