A new study from the University of Colorado challenges the idea that clearing homeless encampments reduces crime in Denver. The researchers looked at the impact of forced displacements on crime within a quarter-mile to three-quarters of a mile around these sweep sites, analyzing data from November 2019 to July 2023. Their findings show that moving people out of encampments did not lead to lower crime rates and only had minor, short-term effects on a few types of crimes.

The study found no overall decrease in crime following the sweeps, with only slight drops in auto theft and public disorder. These small changes faded quickly, and in some cases, violent crime actually went up after the displacements.

Limited evidence

“The main takeaway is that despite popular belief, we found no evidence that displacing homeless people reduces crime or makes communities safer,” the researchers said. The findings also challenge the idea that encampments are linked to higher crime rates in cities.

Previous research has shown that forcing homeless people to move, without offering services, harms their health. The study suggests that without addressing the deeper causes of homelessness, these sweeps are not improving safety.

The researchers believe their findings could apply to other cities facing similar challenges, especially following the recent Supreme Court decision in Grants Pass v. Johnson, which allows cities to carry out these sweeps.

As cities try to balance the needs of the homeless with public safety, the study suggests that sweeping encampments doesn’t help those living in them and does little to make the rest of the community safer.