Biloxi updates panhandling guidelines

Panhandler requirements in Biloxi will now see changes after some with the permits had criminal records.

Biloxi Police Chief John Miller reported that a few panhandlers had criminal records ranging from drug charges to prostitution.

The Biloxi police have been conducting background checks on those applying for the permit since the ordinance passed. Following the background check, the Community Development Department made the final decision.

Now, the police department will have a more involved role in giving recommendations for those applying for a panhandler’s permit. Chief Miller said, “We’ve tried to refine a little bit of the way we do things. We now make a recommendation whether somebody should receive a permit or not. Other than that, things are pretty much the same. We have rejected some folks from having a permit because of their criminal activity.”

Last year, 16 permits were issued by the Community Development Department and no permits were denied. This year, 20 permits have been issued and eight have been denied.