East SBV Times

The Community Service & Reentry Division's Homeless Outreach Proactive Enforcement Team (H.O.P.E.) carried out "Operation Shelter Me" on March 14, 2025, in Hesperia and nearby areas. This initiative aimed to assist unhoused residents by providing access to housing, medical care, and mental health services. The operation particularly focused on individuals with significant mental illnesses to connect them with appropriate mental health support.

During the operation, the H.O.P.E. Team identified 21 individuals experiencing homelessness. Of these, nine were referred to assistance programs, while two were connected with follow-up professional services.

San Bernardino County adopted Laura's Law in June 2023. Also known as Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT), this law facilitates court-ordered community treatment for those with histories of hospitalization or incarceration. However, no candidates for assisted outpatient treatment were identified during this particular operation.

Future operations are planned throughout the county over the next year, supported by "Community Concerns" funding approved by the County Board of Supervisors. This funding allows the Sheriff's Department to address issues such as homelessness and mental illness within the community.

For those aware of individuals experiencing homelessness who require services, contact can be made with the H.O.P.E. Team at 909-387-0623 or [email protected].

Shannon D. Dicus serves as Sheriff-Coroner for San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department.