KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Knoxville Police Department conducted an operation to curb aggressive panhandling in and around the Downtown and Old City areas following “numerous complaints from residents.”
KPD said West District and Central District officers conducted the operation on Wednesday, July 2. The officers focused 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. KPD added that officers worked to find people with outstanding arrest warrants in the Downtown and Old City areas.
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As a result of the operation, nine people were cited for panhandling, four were cited for possession of drug paraphernalia and three people were arrested for charges including 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,” wrote the department in a release…