The case involving Samantha Crabtree highlights significant concerns regarding Kentucky’s Safer Kentucky Act and its impact on homelessness.
Crabtree, cited for unlawful camping while in early labor under an overpass, is challenging the constitutionality of the law, arguing that it violates several constitutional protections, including due process, the right to travel, and equal protection.
Her attorneys assert that the law is overly vague and criminalizes behavior associated with homelessness, punishing individuals who are unable to afford shelter.
While the U.S. Supreme Court recently upheld the constitutionality of camping bans in a separate case, Crabtree’s motion raises important issues not directly addressed by the high court, such as protections under Kentucky’s state constitution.
The case could have broader implications for the treatment of homeless individuals and the enforcement of laws that criminalize poverty.
The police officer involved, Lt. Caleb Stewart, expressed regret over the citation after learning the full context, but the broader legal challenge remains significant.
The case is set to be discussed at a pretrial conference later this month, and its outcome could influence how Kentucky addresses homelessness through legislation in the future.