FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SHARING FOOD IS NOT A CRIME COALITION

OCTOBER 2, 2024

For Arrest details contact Austin Davis 602-688-3180

HOMELESS ADVOCATE AUSTIN DAVIS ARRESTED FOR HELPING PREVENT VIOLENT ALTERCATION

Tempe–On October 1st, Austin Davis walked upon the sidewalk adjacent to Tempe Beach Park to de-escalate a heated altercation between two unhoused individuals. Rather than assist or thank Austin for being a Good Samaritan, City Park Rangers watched from a distance, then called police on Austin Davis, who was immediately arrested and brought to jail. Austin was arrested because the city does not allow Austin in parks even though he prevented physical violence from occurring.

Had the park rangers done what any Good Samaritan or properly trained public servant might have done, Austin would not have needed to engage with anyone and risk violating his probation. Tempe Park Rangers and Police should focus on mediating conflict instead of creating more of it.

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UPDATE: Austin’s 12 month ban from city parks was extended to 18 months as a consequence of his stepping in to intercede in an altercation.