Deputies continue homeless crackdown near I-20, Washington Road

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – More businesses have signed up for the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office program to monitor and relocate the homeless if needed in the area of Washington Road and Interstate 20.

Since last week the number of businesses jumped from 17 to 26.

The program just started Monday.

Some business owners say they’ve already seen more deputies patrolling. And some even say they’re seeing less loitering.

Others think might be too soon to tell.

Homeless people aren’t new to the intersection – possibly one of Auguista’s busiest – but the neighborhood has gained attention from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office as a source of possible crime.

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“Change” is a common word you hear when you talk to the business owners.

Especially when it comes to bringing customers in the door.

That’s because some customers don’t like being approached by homeless people asking for money, said Normita Ladomirak.

“I don’t see much hanging around. No, they come just a little bit, and then they go,” Ladomirak said.

Less loitering around the Raceway gas station is something store employees hope sticks around.

Even though these changes might be helpful now, businesses say they are long overdue.

“It’s a good thing, but I hope so they have a place to,” Ladomirak said.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office says the plan is to get unhoused people into accountability court so they can get the resources they need.

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