SACRAMENTO COUNTY—A recent four-day sweep by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) across unincorporated areas Sacramento County led to the identification of 45 encampments, the arrest of 97 individuals—including 22 for felony offenses—and the provision of vital services to dozens of unhoused individuals.

According to a department update, the operation targeted areas outside of the city limits where deputies visited campsites and conducted both enforcement and outreach. Of the 45 encampments visited, 25 required significant cleanup. While criminal activity was addressed through arrests, HOT team members also extended assistance to those not in violation of the law, offering access to housing and resources.

The enforcement effort revealed stark data on the challenges facing the homeless population in the region. Deputies reported encountering 73 individuals with perceived or diagnosed mental health conditions, 171 with admitted or observed substance abuse issues, and 21 individuals who identified as victims of sexual assault. A total of 54 sexual assault incidents were disclosed, though only 11 had been previously reported to law enforcement.

In addition, the sweep uncovered a troubling trend of domestic violence within the encampments. A total of 28 individuals identified as victims, with 145 incidents detailed—only 29 of which had been reported prior to the outreach. Officials noted 108 of the individuals contacted had prior criminal convictions, including 50 currently on parole and another 50 on probation. Three individuals were registered sex offenders under California Penal Code 290. During the operation, seven vehicles and two RVs were also towed.

The Sacramento County HOT program is more than just enforcement—it’s a coordinated, multi-agency effort to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with long-term services and support. Since its formation in 2017, HOT has provided a hybrid approach to homelessness, blending law enforcement with social service navigation to reduce unlawful behavior while prioritizing rehabilitation and resource access.

The team is made up of deputies trained in crisis intervention and behavioral health, working in tandem with professionals from Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, County Behavioral Health, and a network of local non-profits. Their mission includes helping unhoused individuals transition out of homelessness, ensuring public safety, and reducing the strain on emergency response systems.

Community members who encounter homeless-related concerns in their neighborhood or wish to learn more about local resources can contact the appropriate HOT division:

• North Division HOT (Arden Arcade, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Antelope, Elverta, Rio Linda, unincorporated Natomas): 916-874-1025 | NorthHOT@sacsheriff.com
• Central Division HOT (Parkway-South Sacramento, Florin, Vineyard): 916-874-4468 | CentralHOT@sacsheriff.com
• East Division HOT (Gold River, La Riviera, Rosemont, Mather, Rancho Murieta, and other unincorporated areas): 916-874-1025 | EastHOT@sacsheriff.com
• Rancho Cordova Police Department HOT: 916-875-9635 | RCPDHOT@sacsheriff.com

For more information or to submit a concern, visit the Homeless Outreach Team’s webpage at sacsheriff.com.

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