KPD: Public Statement on Panhandling and Park Enforcement in the City of Kinston

The City of Kinston is committed to maintaining safe, welcoming public spaces for our residents, visitors, and businesses. Over the past several months, we have seen a noticeable increase in panhandling, including incidents of aggressive solicitation, particularly in our downtown business district and city parks. Local business owners have expressed growing concerns about individuals approaching customers, blocking entrances, and engaging in behavior that feels threatening or disruptive. We take these concerns seriously.

Panhandling itself is protected under the First Amendment. However, aggressive behavior, harassment, obstruction, and any conduct that threatens public safety will not be tolerated. Our officers will continue to enforce existing laws related to trespassing, disorderly conduct, roadway safety, and harassment. We are also evaluating whether Kinston should adopt an aggressive panhandling ordinance similar to those used in Hickory, Wilmington, Charlotte, and Fayetteville to provide clearer enforcement authority.

We have also seen an increase in camping, littering, and overnight gatherings in Pearson Park and Tiffany West Park. The Parks are intended to be a safe place for youth, families, and community events. Effective immediately, the Kinston Police Department will enforce posted rules, including Park Closed from Dusk to Dawn and No Trespassing. Individuals found camping, loitering after hours, or damaging park property will be asked to leave and may face enforcement action if they refuse.

Homelessness is a complex issue that involves multiple agencies, including city government, county social services, mental‑health providers, nonprofits, and faith‑based organizations. While the police department plays an important role in public safety, we cannot solve homelessness alone. We will continue working with our partners to connect individuals to services whenever possible, while ensuring our parks, sidewalks, and business areas remain safe and accessible.

Our goal is simple, protect the rights of all individuals while ensuring Kinston remains a safe, clean, and welcoming community. The Kinston Police Department also wants to remind the community that we have limited to no authority over panhandling on private property. Officers can only take action when a property owner or manager requests enforcement by filing a trespass complaint against individuals who refuse to leave. This ensures we respect both constitutional rights and the rights of property owners.

We appreciate the cooperation of our residents and business owners as we address these challenges together.