Española Police Issue Trespass Warnings to Homeless Camp Residents Along Rio Grande

On the morning of August 1, a significant development unfolded in Española as the city police initiated the issuance of criminal trespass warnings to individuals residing in a homeless settlement situated along the banks of the Rio Grande. This marked a notable shift in approach following the most recent threat articulated by city officials to close and disband the encampment.

The Issuance of Warnings

The warnings, which were personally delivered to the occupants of the encampment, served as the inaugural action undertaken by law enforcement subsequent to the posting of a "notice of closure" the day before. The encampment, which was established in February on city grounds off Fairview Drive by City Manager Eric Lujan, was slated for closure at noon, as communicated in the notice. This directive came in the wake of prior warnings in April and June, further underlining the gravity of the situation.

A Shift in Approach

Carol Draper, 60, and her son Scott, who are among the few dozen residents of the encampment, found themselves in receipt of "criminal trespass warnings." This measure, sanctioned by Lujan, explicitly revoked any consent or permission for the individuals to continue their presence on the specified land. The enforcement of these warnings represents a stark departure from the earlier stance adopted by Chief Mizel Garcia, who had previously indicated that the police would refrain from involvement in removing the encampment's inhabitants.

Unforeseen Obstacles

As the events unfolded, a city crew commenced the clearance of trees from the encampment, a task that necessitated the removal of the very trees that had hitherto provided some respite in the form of shade for residents like Draper. The involvement of law enforcement and the concurrent dismantling of the settlement underscore a definitive and unyielding stance adopted by the authorities.

Preceding Circumstances

The establishment of the encampment materialized subsequent to the displacement of a substantial number of individuals from an unsanctioned camp situated on Ohkay Owingeh land in the vicinity. It is noteworthy that many of the current residents had entered into liability contracts facilitated by city officials upon their relocation to the site earlier in the year, further complicating the present circumstances.

Looking Ahead

As the situation continues to evolve, it is imperative to closely monitor the developments that ensue. The enforcement of the criminal trespass warnings and the subsequent dismantling of the encampment signal a definitive shift in the city's approach to the predicament of homelessness within its environs. The coming days are likely to reveal further facets of this multifaceted issue, shedding light on the complex interplay between the rights of the individuals in question and the municipal administration's duty to uphold the law and ensure the conscientious use of public lands.