On Wednesday, July 2, in response to numerous complaints from residents, Knoxville Police Department West District and Central District officers conducted an operation to curb aggressive panhandling.

That operation was focused primarily on off-ramps along I-40 and I-75 in addition to several other city streets, including Kingston Pike, Walker Boulevard, N. Peters Road, Gallaher View Road and Lovell Road. During the operation, officers also focused on the Downtown and Old City areas, where they worked to locate individuals with outstanding arrest warrants.

That effort resulted in nine city citations for panhandling, four misdemeanor citations for possession of drug paraphernalia and 38 citizen contacts. Three people were arrested during the operation for charges that include indecent exposure, disorderly conduct and drunkenness.

The KPD is committed to addressing persistent issues that impact the safety and quality of life of Knoxville residents and visitors.