Sacramento, CA – Tensions are escalating between Sacramento city and county officials as the city attorney responds to threats from the county district attorney (DA) to file criminal charges regarding the ongoing homeless crisis. The dispute revolves around the existence of Camp Resolution, an encampment in old North Sacramento where homeless residents continue to reside, prompting Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho to threaten misdemeanor charges in November.
DA Thien Ho expressed concerns about the conditions at Camp Resolution, labeling the area a potentially toxic site that poses risks to the homeless population. Ho’s threat of legal action against the city prompted a detailed response from Sacramento City Attorney Susana Alcala Wood. The Sacramento Bee obtained a five-page letter from Wood in which she vehemently refutes Ho’s allegations, dismissing them as baseless and driven by political motivations.
City Attorney Wood’s response sheds light on the growing rift between the city and county officials, raising questions about the effectiveness of their collaboration in addressing the complex issue of homelessness. The letter obtained by The Sacramento Bee underscores the magnitude of the disagreement, as both sides present contrasting perspectives on the situation at Camp Resolution.
Notably, Wood accuses DA Ho of pursuing a politically motivated agenda, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict. The city attorney’s assertion that Ho’s allegations lack substance raises concerns about the potential legal ramifications that could arise from the threatened misdemeanor charges.
Complicating matters further is the speculation that the dispute may have broader political implications. DA Thien Ho and Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg are rumored to be potential rivals in a future run for the position of California Attorney General. This political backdrop adds a layer of complexity to the already contentious exchange between the city and county.
In response to the escalating situation, DA Ho’s office has indicated a willingness to engage in discussions with city officials to explore collaborative solutions and find a path forward. The outcome of these potential talks remains uncertain, as both sides navigate the intricacies of addressing the homeless crisis while grappling with political dynamics that may shape their future interactions.
