Advocates fear Louisville Parks Police could target homeless under camping ban
A new ordinance expanding Louisville’s park ranger program has raised serious concerns among advocates, who fear the increased police presence could push homeless individuals out of one of their few remaining safe daytime spaces. The worry stems from the recently passed House Bill 5 — the Safer Kentucky Act — which bans camping in public spaces statewide.
While camping in city parks is now technically illegal, advocates stress that these public areas have long served as vital refuges where unsheltered residents can rest and find some peace without being harassed or displaced. Many now fear that the growing presence of park police will lead to further criminalization of homelessness in Louisville, deepening an already urgent humanitarian crisis.
