Homeless encampments generating complaints in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- Residents at a Long Beach complex say the city isn't doing enough to stop the crime they say homeless people are committing in their neighborhood.

Encampments have popped up recently at 6th Street and Elm Avenue, and residents say the problem isn't just laundry hanging out at the bus stop - it's the open drug use.

Residents say they have seen people shooting up or smoking crack, and they note that there's a school in the area, only about 200 yards away.

What frustrates residents is often a mixed bag of problems that must be separated to be solved, according to the city's homeless services officer.

Teresa Chandler with Long Beach Homeless Services notes that some of the problem causing problems at the encampments aren't necessarily homeless. Those that are without homes can get help at the city's Multi-Service Center for the Homeless.

"We also have a quality of life team under our police department who goes out very closely with our outreach workers and will continue to provide services and offer services for folks," Chandler said.

When residents see a problem, they can call this hotline: (562)570-4550.