Very few return back to Chinatown after sweep

Chinatown is more like a ghost town on Friday Morning, following the sweep by Salinas Police and City contractors Thursday. Many homeless did not know where they were going to go, and even tried to return back to the neighborhood.

“I know once they’re done we are coming back. They want to give us a ticket, then give us a ticket. It’s not a crime to be homeless or to put up your house,” said Diana Blaylock. “They’ve been throwing peoples personal belongings away all morning long. I can’t see where that’s okay,” said David Cuellar.

Back in September the City Council voted 6 to 1 to ban the homeless from camping on public and private property, which is why many worry about getting a ticket. The Asian Festival will be held in Chinatown on Saturday.