San Jose's homelessness policies criticized for police violence

Homeless advocates in San Jose are criticizing the city's aggressive approach to homelessness after a violent police incident involving an unhoused man. They argue that hostile rhetoric has contributed to such confrontations, calling for a reassessment of current policies. The incident, captured on video, shows police using force against a man identified as Oscar, who was reportedly lying on the sidewalk. Police stated they responded to complaints about his behavior, leading to his arrest for multiple charges, including resisting arrest. San Jose's recent initiatives include stricter measures against homelessness, such as a proposed law to penalize those refusing shelter. While some residents support these measures, advocates warn that criminalizing homelessness does not address the underlying issues and may escalate violence against unhoused individuals.