I’m pretty sure I’m familiar with this person. First time I met him he was outside the giant by 7th street a year or so ago. I was waiting for my friend to get done shopping and he approached me in a friendly manner, then got into his background story. He said he was 17 years old so like 18 now. He said he got kicked out of his home with no one to turn to for help, and was staying in one of the encampments but didn’t feel safe there. I felt bad and appreciated his honestly. Then he pleaded for me to get him something inside so I got him a couple drinks. He appreciated the soda but was a bit upset I didn’t get cash back for him.

I’ve had a couple friends have encounters with him that were more hostile with some verbal threats and trailing for a couple blocks. I ran into him last time a couple months ago outside the Whole Foods on P. He didn’t recognize me but he was eagerly following before I told him I’d give him some cash next time we ran into eachother but I didn’t even have my wallet on me at the time.

I understand it is concerning and frightening given the encounters listed here. I hope for everyone’s safety but I also hope he gets some help in some form that is effective and not just punitive. He’s basically still a just kid, who is clearly dealing with some serious issues. I don’t think he’s some seasoned criminal but I understand people act desperately in desperate times.