Judge Orders Police to Stop Arresting 91-Year-Old Man for Feeding the Homeless by Jean Ann Esselink The New Civil Rights Movement |
"Circuit Court Judge Thomas Lynch issued his ruling after the city pursued charges against 91-year-old Arnold Abbott, a retired jeweler who has been feeding the homeless at the beach for twenty-three years. Mr. Abbott, a World War II vet, has been arrested at least three times (photo left) since October 31, when the city passed an ordinance restricting where outdoor feeding sites can be located, requiring the permission of property owners, and demanding groups distributing food provide portable toilets.
"Judge Lynch told police there were to be no more arrests or citations given to anyone for feeding the homeless for the next thirty days. The judge then ordered the city to participate in arbitration with Mr. Abbott..."