Local pastor helping homelessness in Ocean City
OCEAN CITY, Md. – A church in downtown Ocean City has seen some arrests on their property due to an amended ordinance in Worcester County.
The building sits across the street from City Hall. St Paul’s By The Sea Episcopal Church.
The church’s pastor, Reverened Jill Williams, said things have been challenging.
“A couple months ago, the police were called by another citizen, and he was removed from the property, and taken into custody. Now he faces charges and possible jail time.”
After the incident, Rev. Williams was told she would have to stand trial as a witness. “I’m really uncomfortable with being someone who contributes to him being jailed for having no where to sleep,” said Rev. Williams.
Earlier in July, a bill that was updated from the mid-80’s called Bill 25 – 02. It passed unanimously by Worcester County Commissioners.
The legislation specifies that it is a misdemeanor to inhabit, camp, or sleep on county property and roadsides.
Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli said its to protect the community. “This bill is not set to be for a pro-arrest policy,” said Sheriff Crisafulli. “The problem that West Ocean City and Ocean City is that they started seeing that there were a lot of repeat offenders.”
Crisafulli adds that the bill helps deputies be more flexible in policing the streets.
“This gives law-enforcement, a tool so that they would be able to make an arrest, and hopefully through the judicial process, maybe that person can get the assistance they need.”
Rev. Williams feels like she’s running out of options. “I’ve been advised that they are seeking conviction, and they have called me as a witness, so if I don’t testify, I would be in contempt.”
The church has been trying to address chronic homelessness. They serve meals 5 days a week, and operate a food pantry 4 days a week, they also provide extended shelter hours.
