'Panhandling is illegal' signs in Langley get mixed reviews

Several months after the City and Township of Langley, B.C., put up a number of signs along 200Street that say panhandling is illegal and unsafe, the controversial project is still getting mixed reviews.

"We've had quite an issue with people aggressively panhandling on corners and that has created safety concerns with regards to traffic," said Langley Township Counc. Kim Richter.

The signs were installed on medians atsome of the busiest intersections in Langley.

They seem to have made a difference at the intersection of 200Street and the Langley Bypass, but it's not uncommon to see people asking for money at 200Street and 64Avenue.

"They still seem to go there regardless," said Nick Perry, who works close by.

"For the most part they've been safe and they usually stay out of harm's way, out of traffic."

Is panhandling illegal?

Municipalities have different bylaws that deal with panhandling and there is also provincial legislation.

Lawyer Jeff Zilkowsky says panhandlers are usually given a warning or a fine, but criminal charges are laid occasionally.

"There are two main sections of the Criminal Code that deal with panhandling," Zilkowsky said.

"There is uttering threats, and that covers any threatening words or gestures by people who may be panhandling. Then there is also mischief, which is basically blocking someone's enjoyment or use of their property."

Different Approach in Surrey

The Surrey RCMP teamed up earlier this year with Transit Police to patrol transit hubs in an attempt to crack down on panhandling, drug use and public drinking.

Craig Coleman used to panhandle at Surrey Central Station, but the police chased him away.

He now sets up on the corner of King George Boulevardand 100Avenue.

"When I started doing this, the first year they left me alone, but then they started getting on my case," Coleman said.

"They wrote me tickets twice. I got two $86 fines. Now I came down here and they seem to leave me alone, but I'm sneaky about it."

Coleman says he stays off medians because heavy traffic makes them dangerous.

Chilliwack and Abbotsford also have signs prohibiting panhandling.