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What is the LAPD’s role in addressing homelessness?
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) plays a supportive and public safety role in the City’s response to homelessness. While LAPD officers do not provide housing or social services, they:
· Respond to calls for service involving public safety concerns
· Assist outreach teams when safety support is needed
· Connect individuals experiencing homelessness with appropriate City and County resources when possible
· Enforce laws when necessary, with an emphasis on voluntary compliance and services first with compassion, dignity and respect
Who should I call if I see someone experiencing homelessness who needs help?
If the situation is not an emergency, community members are encouraged to request outreach services:
· Dial 3-1-1 (City services) 311 Website
· Use the LA-HOP (Los Angeles Homeless Outreach Portal) online request system
· Contact local outreach providers in your area
If there is an emergency or immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
What is LA-HOP?
The Los Angeles Homeless Outreach Portal (LA-HOP) allows community members to submit a request for outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness. Trained outreach teams respond and attempt to connect individuals with shelter, services, and support.
Does LAPD remove homeless encampments?
Encampment cleanups are coordinated by multiple City departments. LAPD’s role is to:
· Ensure public safety during operations
· Help maintain order and access
· Support City partners conducting cleanups
LAPD does not independently conduct encampment cleanups or provide housing placements.
Can LAPD force someone to accept services or housing?
In most cases, services are voluntary. Individuals have the right to refuse assistance unless specific legal conditions are met (e.g., a danger to themselves or others).
What should I do if I’m concerned about an encampment in my neighborhood?
You can:
· Report concerns through 3-1-1
· Submit a request via LA-HOP
· Contact your local LAPD division for non-emergency concerns
Providing details (location, size, specific concerns) helps ensure the appropriate response.
How does LAPD work with outreach teams?
LAPD collaborates with:
· City outreach teams
· Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA)
· Mental health professionals and service providers
Officers may accompany outreach teams when there are safety concerns or assist in connecting individuals to services.
What about mental health-related situations?
LAPD works alongside specialized resources such as:
· Mental Evaluation Units (MEU)
· Co-response teams with clinicians
Whenever possible, individuals are directed to mental health services instead of the criminal justice system.
Is homelessness a crime?
No. Being homeless is not a crime.
However, certain behaviors (e.g., blocking sidewalks, illegal dumping, or criminal activity) may be subject to enforcement. LAPD prioritizes education, compliance, and service referrals whenever feasible.
How can I help individuals experiencing homelessness?
Community members can:
· Support local service organizations
· Volunteer or donate to outreach programs
· Use LA-HOP to request professional outreach instead of direct intervention
Where can I find more resources?
· City of Los Angeles: Homelessness resources (via 3-1-1)
· LAHSA: Services and information
· LA-HOP: Outreach requests
Our Commitment
LAPD remains committed to a compassionate, service-first approach while maintaining public safety and working collaboratively with City and County partners to address homelessness in Los Angeles.