A mobile court event held at the Orchard Baptist Church in Vacaville on Saturday provided an opportunity for homeless individuals to resolve misdemeanor charges and clear arrest warrants. Organized by Solano County District Attorney Krishna Abrams and local advocates, the initiative aimed to help participants regain control over their lives and move forward without the burden of legal issues.
During the event, many attendees were able to have their charges dismissed or warrants recalled, often within minutes. Matthew Olsen, a Deputy District Attorney, noted that some participants even had cases removed before they were formally filed. “It’s a very feel-good event,” he stated, highlighting the community’s support for the effort. Attendees received letters confirming the dismissal of their issues, with Abrams advising them to keep these documents handy as delays in law enforcement’s systems might occur.
The genesis of the event arose from rising arrest rates among the homeless population in Vacaville. Skip Thomson, a former Solano County Supervisor and event organizer, revealed that in July 2024, homeless individuals accounted for 96 of 242 arrests booked into the county jail. “We said, you know, ‘this is ridiculous,'” he remarked, emphasizing the financial and social costs of repeatedly arresting vulnerable individuals. This sentiment resonated with community members and law enforcement alike, prompting discussions on how to address the issue more effectively.
Thomson explained that many cases processed during the mobile court were directly related to homelessness. The United States Supreme Court’s decision in 2024 regarding “anti-camping” ordinances has led to an increase in arrests across the country. “Every night that the homeless are on the streets, they’re camping illegally,” he added. This legal framework has made it increasingly challenging for those without stable housing, as they face arrest for basic survival activities.
The event also included a resource fair, offering attendees access to essential services such as food, pet supplies, and assistance from local organizations. Sheryl Cutler from the Workforce Development Board of Solano County emphasized the importance of providing job-seeking support to justice-involved individuals. She noted the impact of the Fair Chance Act, which removes barriers for those with criminal records during the hiring process. “Many more companies are open to hiring someone with a criminal record,” she stated, highlighting the positive effects of the law.
Abrams expressed appreciation for the volunteers who contributed to the event, noting that hosting it away from the courthouse created a safer environment for attendees. “I think people realize once it’s at a church that it’s a safe place and that there will be no arrests,” she said. This reassurance is crucial for many participants who may feel apprehensive about engaging with the legal system.
The implications of clearing legal issues extend beyond mere dismissals. Abrams highlighted that resolving these matters can remove significant obstacles to securing housing, employment, and even the right to see one’s children. “We do need to look to see where the shelters are,” she stated, recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach to homelessness in the community.
Gail Thomson, who played a pivotal role in organizing the event, pointed out that the current legal climate can make it nearly impossible to be homeless without facing arrest. “If you are homeless, you will be arrested,” she asserted. She underscored the need for a reassessment of local policies, arguing that the approach to law enforcement should not criminalize survival behaviors.
As Vacaville continues to grapple with rising homelessness—an increase from about 80 individuals three years ago to over 300 today—Gail Thomson called for a collective re-evaluation of strategies. “What we are doing has not been working,” she concluded, emphasizing the need for new solutions to address the ongoing crisis.
The mobile court event stands as a testament to community collaboration, providing a vital service to those in need while fostering a more supportive environment for the homeless population in Vacaville. The positive outcomes from this initiative may serve as a blueprint for similar efforts in other communities facing the challenges of homelessness and legal barriers.
