Since 2018, New Hampshire homeowner Robin Bach has contacted the police 37 times, pleading for assistance in removing a homeless encampment that has taken root near her property. In a recent interview with NewsNation, Bach detailed the struggles her family has faced since purchasing and renovating their home in 2018. Despite numerous calls for help, the police have been unable to permanently resolve the issue.
A Cycle of Eviction and Return
Bach explains that while the police occasionally respond to her calls and ask the homeless individuals to move, this solution is only temporary. “Most of the time, they just run off when the police arrive. The police can’t always catch them to tell them to leave,” Bach shared. Even when the tents are knocked down, new individuals quickly take their place, leaving behind trash and causing Bach to feel unsafe.
Dangerous Encounters
The situation is more than just an inconvenience for Bach and her family; it poses a significant threat to their safety. In 2019, a mentally ill man from the encampment threatened Bach’s husband. Although this individual was later committed to a mental health facility, the incident left a lasting impression on the family. “One time is enough to make us feel like it could happen again,” Bach said, highlighting the constant fear that another dangerous encounter could occur.
A Backyard Off-Limits
The fear has driven Bach and her children to avoid their backyard entirely. “We tend to not go back out there anymore because my kids just don’t feel safe, even if I’m with them,” she said. The presence of the encampment has fundamentally changed how the family uses their property, with the children particularly affected by the fear of potential harm.
Obstacles to Fencing
Building a fence to secure their property is not a straightforward solution for the Bachs. The wooded area behind their home, which includes protected bald eagle nests, presents both environmental and logistical challenges. “It’s a significant amount of work and very expensive,” Bach explained, noting that clearing the brush and constructing the fence would be a major undertaking.
Lack of Effective Solutions
Despite the persistent threat and numerous calls for help, Bach has yet to see substantial action from local officials. “I think friends and neighbors are reaching out, and that’s great to keep the conversation going, but we’ve yet to hear anything concrete from the city,” she lamented. The lack of a long-term solution has left the family feeling abandoned and unsafe.
The Impact on Community Safety
The Bachs’ struggle is a reminder of the broader issues surrounding homelessness and public safety. While police can temporarily disband encampments, the lack of permanent housing and support for homeless individuals leads to a cycle of displacement rather than resolution. This case underscores the need for more effective strategies and resources to address homelessness comprehensively, ensuring both public safety and humane treatment for the homeless population.
Calls for Systemic Change
In the interview with NewsNation, Bach emphasized the need for systemic change in how homelessness is managed. “There’s so much more help needed than what we’re getting,” she said, questioning the effectiveness of current policies and resources. Her story highlights the urgent need for better coordination between law enforcement, social services, and local governments to provide lasting solutions for both the homeless and the communities affected by encampments.
“Lazy Police”
People in the comments shared their opinions: “Disgusting… what a shame. This person appears very articulate and reasonable and I would be scared for my kids and family if I was in her shoes as well! I would be furious about this.”
Some commenters had interesting solutions: “Go buy some speakers and blare the line from the movie dumb and dumber where Loyd says, ” You know what the most annoying sound in the world is? AAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!” and play this on repeat. Guarantee they’ll leave.”
One person simply concluded: “Lazy police”
A Community in Limbo
As Bach and her family continue to navigate this challenging situation, they remain hopeful that their story will prompt action from local authorities. The ongoing struggle for safety and peace of mind for homeowners like Bach highlights the urgent need for comprehensive and compassionate approaches to homelessness. Only through systemic change can communities like theirs find relief from the persistent challenges posed by nearby encampments.
Effective Law Enforcement
What do you think? What strategies could law enforcement employ to provide more permanent solutions to the problem of recurring homeless encampments? What role should local communities and neighborhoods play in addressing homelessness in their areas? What additional resources and support systems are needed to address the mental health issues often prevalent within homeless populations?
See the full video on NewsNation’s YouTube channel for more details here.
