A group of homeless people living behind Ross Dress For Less in Santa Cruz and their supporters filed for an injunction Tuesday in San Francisco Federal District to block the eviction of the camp claiming in part that it will violate the Ninth Circuit Court of appeals ruling in Martin v. Boise against cruel and unusual punishment. They claim the City is not offering safe and appropriate shelter Santa Cruz’ homeless residents.
The case, filed by advocacy group “Food Not Bombs” and supporters hopes to force the City of Santa Cruz to stop the eviction of those living behind Ross and encourage the city to move forward on transitional camps, emergency shelter beds and housing for everyone living outdoors in Santa Cruz.
Separately, the city says it has also received a letter from the American Civil Liberties Union questioning its handle of homeless issues and seeking more information from city officials.
