This by-law lists offences, many of which are committed on a daily basis by people living on the street. These include being drunk in a public place, urinating or defecating in a public place, continuing to beg (after receiving a negative response), spitting in a public place, etc. Fines range from R50 upwards to R1500 (for 'soliciting for prostitution' for the third time). A metro police officer who observes the offence can issue a spot-fine, which must be paid at a municipal court or the traffic department. Alternatively a witness can give a sworn statement and testify in court (if the person denies guilt). The fine is processed in the same way as a traffic fine. The By-law can be downloaded from the Council's website. So far little visible effort has been made (by members of the public or by Metro) to enforce this by-law. I've uploaded as file which describes how to can report offences. Our Ward Councillor, Cedric Thomas suggests you try all these methods. In this way the Subcouncil will build up a record of what works and what doesn't. It may be worth making the effort. I welcome any feedback! Rob Gaylard
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