A panhandler wound up behind bars less than five hours after Orlando leaders decided to crack down on aggressive soliciting.
- Panhandler arrested after soliciting was made illegal
- Soliciting ruling made official Monday
- Police says law was in effect at time of arrest
Orlando Police say 21-year-old Cody Turner was holding a sign and asking for money while weaving through cars waiting at Curry Ford Road and Crystal Lake Drive.
Orlando City Commission voted Monday that soliciting people sitting in cars at intersections would be illegal in Orlando.
"You'll recall we had someone killed at an intersection last year. So this is not only about harassment but it's also about the safety of the individuals who are soliciting," Mayor Buddy Dyer explained.
Orlando Police explained the ordinance was in effect at the time of Turner's arrest and officers have the discretion to enforce the new ordinance as they see fit.
The new rule also forbids panhandlers from approaching people at ATMs, sitting in outdoor patio areas or in line for an event. It also gets rid of blue-marked areas where panhandlers were previously required to stay, allowing them to panhandle anywhere on the sidewalk.