Residents demand action after homeless man threatens couple

In a recent Bedford City Council meeting, residents voiced their growing concerns over homelessness and public safety, sparked by a distressing incident involving a homeless man near their homes. Keith Walter recounted a harrowing experience from November 18, when he discovered a homeless man sleeping in his backyard. The situation escalated when the man returned, threatening Walter and his wife, prompting them to call 911 out of fear for their safety.

Walter's account highlighted a perceived inadequacy in the police response. After officers arrived and spoke with the homeless man, they left him in the park, which Walter felt was a dangerous decision given the threats made. He expressed frustration that his concerns were not taken seriously, feeling that the police had already made up their minds about the situation without fully understanding his perspective.

Dana Walter, Keith's wife, shared her own feelings of insecurity following the incident, noting that she now feels unsafe walking near their home, which she once considered a safe neighborhood. She emphasized the need for the city to address homelessness more effectively, advocating for increased police support and resources to ensure the safety of residents while also considering the needs of the homeless population.

The discussion prompted responses from city officials, including Police Chief Lupena, who acknowledged the challenges of managing homelessness and the complexities involved in law enforcement's interactions with transient individuals. He assured residents that the police are actively working to address these issues, including collaborating with organizations to provide resources for those in need.

The meeting underscored a critical dialogue about balancing public safety with compassion for the homeless, as residents called for more proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. As Bedford grapples with these challenges, the community's safety and the well-being of its most vulnerable members remain at the forefront of city council discussions.