DENVER (KDVR) — NewsNation affiliate KDVR has been receiving complaints about tent and RV encampments on city streets and neighborhoods as the city continues efforts to address the issue of homelessness this summer.
The Denver Rescue Mission reports that 9,065 people are currently homeless within the city limits.
Residents at the Nettie Moore Apartments said they have seen crime increase since RVs have been parking near the complex.
“They have no regard for anyone living around here,” Jessica Montero said.
A major concern is that those living in the RVs are gaining more access to the property.
“You’ll find them, like, charging their phones in the hallways,” Montero said.
Another resident said the dumpster is being used as a public bathroom.
“They were doing a drug deal right here on the corner. A couple of weeks ago, we saw a guy got beat up right out here,” Robert Grenlow said.
The KDVR Problem Solvers reached out to city officials about the complaint. When KDVR arrived at the apartment complex, patrols were circling the block.
Denver Homeless Outreach Team warns RV camps
The Problem Solvers learned the city has cited owners of the vehicles in the past.
The Denver Police Department told KDVR that in May, the Homeless Outreach Team issued 72-hour notices requiring the vehicles be moved at least 700 feet or be towed according to the city ordinance. When officers returned the next week, the RVs were gone but later returned.
The Homeless Outreach Team issued four 72-hour notices on Monday in response to the most recent complaint about the vehicles parked near the Nettie Moore Apartments.
One resident, who escaped the nightmare of being homeless herself, expressed the need for resources and compassion for those who do not commit crimes but are simply struggling.
“Look at the ones who have families, what are they going through,” she said.
The public dashboard for All In Mile High, which aims to get people sheltered and into housing, shows 1,623 unhoused people have been placed in housing or reunited with loved ones as a result of Mayor Mike Johnston’s initiative.
The Denver Housing and Homeless Guide has information for those who need assistance or would like to offer support to programs that help those in need.