Arnold Abbott: 90-year-old arrested for feeding the homeless in Fort Lauderdale

[DavenRoxy 1,073]

It did not take long for the city of Fort Lauderdale to make good on the promise to criminally charge those who violate a new ordinance that effectively outlaws groups from feeding the homeless in public.

On Sunday the city charged three people, including two ministers and a 90-year-old homeless advocate, and they could face up to 60 days in jail for their crime.

90-year-old Arnold Abbott prepares hundreds of meals each week for the homeless in the kitchen of the Sanctuary Church.

"I fully believe that I am my brother's keeper. Love they neighbor as thy self," he says.

But Abbott's work now has him in trouble with the law.

He faces possible jail time and a $500 fine for feeding the homeless after he was charged Sunday with violating a new ordinance that virtually outlaws groups from sharing food with the hungry in the city.

http://www.wptv.com/news/state/arnold-abbott-90-year-old-arrested-for-feeding-the-homeless-in-fort-lauderdale

[lostinblue 1,989]

From a news story in that city . comments section .

I used to think the problem was the mayor on this issue then I read the law and realized the law is written so that this is done in a sanitary and healthy way, the law does not state not to feed the homeless it states that there is a procedure and protocol that needs to be followed. The media needs to do a better job of informing the public of what the law states in stead of presenting the news in a manner that instigates law breakers. This is just my observation, just stating my opinion, please note my comments are not pro-mayor, or racist or religious.

While I have sympathy for the "homeless" and give far more than my fair share to try and help them, I don't want them defecating on the sidewalks of our beautiful City. I also don't want the Politicians I pay with my taxes to make them feel welcome. In fact I would like it if they all moved to another City as quickly as possible. I understand that's not very PC, but I don't care. Oh, I also don't like dodging them at every intersection, every day.

Everybody has to use the bathroom regardless of eating. Most public parks have facilities, and when I go to them, they always seem to be locked. That would be helpful if they were available. If the government really wanted to fix THAT issue, it is an easy fix. Easy and not that costly to maintain. They could even have people with community service needs to clean them so it wouldn't cost much at all.