On Wednesday, July 29, 2026, deputies from the Sheriff’s Homeless Assistance Resource Team (HART) conducted a joint operation with the Escondido Police Department’s Community Enhancement Bureau in response to ongoing community complaints regarding unauthorized encampments and public nuisance issues. The large encampment spanned both the City of Escondido and the unincorporated county area of Harmony Grove.
Sheriff’s HART Deputies and Escondido Police Officers had previously engaged with the individuals experiencing homelessness in the area, offering access to a wide range of resources, including shelter, mental health services and substance abuse treatment. Additionally, individuals were warned that camping on private property was not permitted.
As part of the operation, deputies and officers arrested five individuals for illegal lodging, outstanding warrants, and giving a false name. In response to community concerns about excessive trash and debris originating from vehicles parked in a residential neighborhood, six vehicles were also towed. The City of Escondido’s Public Works Department responded and cleared multiple truckloads of trash and debris from the area.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to a balanced approach of outreach and enforcement, working closely with community partners to connect individuals in need with available services while addressing criminal activity that impacts public safety. To learn more about Sheriff’s HART, visit: https://www.sdsheriff.gov/community/homeless-outreach.
To report suspicious or criminal activity, call the Sheriff’s Office at (858) 868-3200.
