East SBV Times

The 2024 San Bernardino County Point in Time Count (PITC) report was recently released, showing that homelessness has increased for the fifth consecutive year. Although this year's increase was the smallest in the last five years, it underscores the ongoing need for concerted efforts to address the issue.

Since 2018, the number of homeless individuals in San Bernardino County has risen by 101%, from 2,118 to 4,255 in 2024. Approximately 75% of the homeless population is concentrated in seven cities: San Bernardino, Victorville, Colton, Fontana, Redlands, Ontario, and Barstow.

Substance abuse, mental illness, and physical disability are commonly reported among the homeless population. In 2023, an average of five homeless individuals died each week, with substance abuse and physical injuries being the most common causes of death.

Recognizing the need to protect the most vulnerable of the homeless population, Sheriff Dicus has long advocated for implementing Laura's Law in San Bernardino County. Laura's Law provides pathways to court-ordered treatment for individuals with serious mental illness who are resistant to services, have histories of violence, and meet other specified criteria. In June 2023 the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to enact Laura’s Law.

The Community Service & Reentry Division (CSRD), Homeless Outreach and Proactive Enforcement (HOPE) team, and the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), through the Recovery Based Engagement and Support Team (RBEST), collaborate to provide care for individuals with untreated mental illness.

Since the program's inception, CSRD has referred 28 individuals to RBEST for Laura's Law consideration. Since October 2023 when the first Laura's Law case was taken in San Bernardino County, the Sheriff's Department has taken 46 reports for consideration under Laura's Law. Of these 46 reports, 29 cases were referred to DBH for further action. The remaining cases are still under investigation or require further engagement and monitoring or did not meet Laura's Law criteria.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is dedicated to reducing homelessness and implementing proactive solutions to ensure individuals with mental health issues receive the care they need. Learn more about the Point-in-Time Count by clicking [here](https://sbchp.sbcounty.gov/community-projects/point-in-time-count/).

Refer: Public Affairs Division

Phone: 909-387-3700