If you live in an area apartment building, you might want to check the lobby before grabbing your mail! Reports of homeless individuals crashing in lobbies, hallways, and even laundry rooms have been on the rise, and some of the culprits are repeat offenders.
UNWELCOME GUEST AT HUDSON HOUSE
At 6:30 AM, residents of Hudson House Apartments woke up to an unexpected visitor—a man fast asleep in the building’s lobby. Concerned tenants called police, who arrived quickly to wake him up and offer assistance.
Rather than throwing the man straight into jail, officers gave him a ride to a local recovery center, hoping to steer him toward getting the help he needs.
But there was a catch—he’d already been trespassed from the property before, meaning if he came back, he’d be facing criminal charges.
STREET SLEEPERS: LIVING OUT OF A TRUCK
Meanwhile, over on Findlay Street, a landlord called police around 9:30 AM, concerned about suspicious activity outside his renters’ home. The problem? A red truck parked on the street was serving as a makeshift home for multiple people.
When officers checked it out, they found a man inside who admitted he had lost his job and had nowhere else to go. He told police he was friends with someone in the house nearby, but unfortunately, his buddy didn’t have room for him inside—so the truck became his bedroom.
The problem? Sleeping in your car is illegal. Officers explained the situation, and the man agreed to move along.
WHAT TO DO IF HOMELESSNESS HITS YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
Lock Up Common Areas – If your apartment has lobbies, hallways, or laundry rooms, make sure doors lock properly to prevent unwanted guests.
Report Suspicious Activity – If you spot someone squatting in a building or vehicle, call the police or property management to handle it before things escalate.
Support Local Resources – Many people don’t want to be homeless. Supporting local shelters and outreach programs can help get them off the streets before they resort to trespassing.
While officers are trying to offer assistance instead of just handing out charges, one thing is clear—Portsmouth’s homeless crisis isn’t going anywhere.
