BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Bakersfield police arrested 17 people, seized 12 dogs, and removed nearly 26 tons of trash during an encampment clean-up operation Wednesday near the railroad tracks between East Truxtun Avenue and Virginia Avenue, authorities said.
Police said the 25.93 tons of trash filled four 40-yard bins and two grapple trailers.
The 17 arrests involved charges related to trespassing, possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia, public nuisance, and active warrants, police said.
Photo: Bakersfield Police Dept.
The 12 dogs that were seized were taken to the Animal Control Shelter, where they were considered for spay and neutering services.
Before the operation, Flood Ministries went to the area to provide resource options to people experiencing homelessness, and two accepted those services.
The Bakersfield Police Department’s Impact Unit worked on the operation with Bakersfield City Code Enforcement, Rapid Response, Animal Control, and the Arson Division. The project was funded by Measure N, also known as the Bakersfield Public Safety & Vital Services Measure.
Photo: Bakersfield Police Dept.
Residents are encouraged to contact BPD to report homelessness-related concerns through the Community Vitality Unit at communityvitality@bakersfieldcity.us or (661) 326-3737.
Encampments can also be reported to the City of Bakersfield through its free Bakersfield Mobile App or through the online Service Request portal.