27-02-2025
BPD clears 11 encampments, arrests 9 during sweep on V Street
For the second time in a week, Bakersfield police swept through an encampment and arrested nine people, this time in the 200 block of V Street.
The Bakersfield Police Department's Impact Team, city code enforcement and Kern County Behavioral Health & Recovery Services collaborated in Wednesday's response after BPD and other city staff heard from concerned residents during a Feb. 4 walk of the area.
Business owners and residents shared concerns about the encampment's residents being involved in narcotics and other crimes, according to BPD. Some were also concerned about the encampment being near schools and bus stops.
BPD said 11 encampments were cleared, a vehicle was impounded, two dogs were taken into temporary custody and nine arrests were made on suspicion of trespassing, outstanding arrest warrants, narcotics and weapons violations.
The Feb. 19 sweep covered several miles along the Kern River between Calloway Drive and the 24th Street overpass.
"The Bakersfield Police Department recognizes the need for collaborative efforts to solve the issues facing our community and is dedicated to continuing these efforts," BPD said in a news release.
Encampments can be reported to the city of Bakersfield through its free Bakersfield Mobile App — available on both Apple and Android devices — or via the online Service Request portal.
