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Columbia Missourian

Panhandling should be illegal in Columbia

By Darrell Black, Columbia
July 22, 2008 | 10:07 a.m. CDT

I’ve been living in Columbia since 1987. I come downtown to The District everyday, Monday through Saturday. During all the years I’ve lived here, I run into homeless people panhandling all over Columbia. Places like Ninth Street and the historic Wabash Station especially. The panhandling issue has been a major problem in Columbia for years. I get approached by panhandlers right in front of Lakota Coffee Company every time I go in. I’m frustrated and fed up with these panhandlers of Columbia.

It should be a law here in Columbia where it’s strictly prohibited. Or is it? I want this problem solved and if it means people getting arrested because of panhandling so be it. Panhandlers don’t deserve my money I work hard for. Keep these people off the streets, Columbia Police Department. They are a menace to society.

Any ideas or suggestions I would like to hear from you. Please e-mail me at dblack1967@yahoo.com