While it may have been a refuge for homeless individuals, it was far from a safe haven. And that is why city police in partnership with CN Police and city officials were successful last week in seeing the demolition of an abandoned building located on CN property at the end of Hiawatha Street in St. Thomas.
The structure became the target of squatters who repeatedly broke into the building.
St. Thomas Police Chief Chris Herridge stressed there are safer options for the homeless than the derelict railway structure.
Herridge stressed at stake was more than just a place for the homeless to stay but also respecting neighbours and increased incidents of property crimes.
Herridge added, several neighbours had complained to police and city officials regarding discarded drug paraphernalia and fires that had been set inside the building.
