The city’s homeless crisis reached another boiling point this week as James Hodge, a familiar figure to both business owners and law enforcement, was arrested twice in less than 24 hours — only to be released both times and returned to the streets.
It began around 1 p.m., when employees at a Gay Street business called police to report a homeless man inside making threats, including claims he would damage nearby Tracy Park — a location already struggling with ongoing homeless encampments, public waste, and disorderly behavior.
By the time officers arrived, Hodge had vanished, last seen heading into Tracy Park, where tensions have been rising over trash, violence, and unauthorized camping. Officers were unable to locate him, but business owners formally requested a trespass order.
🚓 Arrested… Then Immediately Released
Officers caught up with Hodge early the next morning, placed him under arrest for disorderly conduct, and then — as has become routine — immediately released him from custody.
That release didn’t last long.
By 11:30 p.m., multiple 911 callers reported a shirtless man staggering near York Park. One witness said the man had just smashed the window of a Jeep. Officers again located James Hodge, this time taking him to the Scioto County Jail.
⚖️ Courtroom Revolving Door
Hodge appeared in Portsmouth Municipal Court on Monday morning, where he pleaded no contest to a disorderly conduct charge. His sentence? Court costs — and immediate release.
🏚️ A Crisis With No End in Sight
The case highlights a growing concern among residents, business owners, and police: How many times does someone have to be arrested before real help — or real consequences — kick in?
James Hodge’s behavior isn’t rare in Portsmouth. As the city struggles with nine known homeless encampments, officials are overwhelmed by a wave of repeat offenders cycling through arrest, release, and rearrest, often within hours.
Law enforcement officers are exhausted, businesses are frustrated, and neighborhoods are on edge.
