RSO conducts massive ‘quality of life operation’ in Palm Desert

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) - The Riverside County Sheriff's office conducted a "quality of life" operation in Palm Desert on Monday, making 48 arrests on misdemeanor and felony violations. They also issued 26 citations for traffic related offenses. Some residents were concerned by the police presence, and expressed worry for the homeless population in the area.

"They were uncomfortable even walking up to where we are because they saw so much police presence," says Michele Verdugo, president of The Bridges 2 Hope.

The organization hosts an outreach program in Palm Desert that offers food, resources, medical help, showers and more. Verdugo says one of their clients was approached four times by the police on his way to their outreach event.

"He got a little bit discouraged because each time they ran his record...it was very intimidating and scary for him," Verdugo says.

News Channel 3 reached out to the Riverside County Sheriff station for answers. They declined an interview, but answered questions via email, sharing “contacting homeless individuals is not the focus of these operations. We recognize that enforcement alone does not build a safe community.”

They're calling police sweep a "quality of life" operation. “Quality of Life operations are conducted regularly throughout Riverside County to help keep our communities safe by improving the quality of life for everyone who lives, works, and visits," the Palm Desert Sheriff Station wrote in an email to News Channel 3.

They also confiscated various illegal drugs, including methamphetamine and fentanyl. Verdugo says she has empathy for people struggling with addiction.

"They are using a drug or alcohol to feel normal or to not feel the way they're feeling at that moment. Anyone on the street is is not happy. So if you want to escape it, that's a particular way to escape it," she says.

If you know anyone who may need food assistance or resources, visit www.thebridges2hope.com