Man Charged with Felony for Camping in Public Park

Why it matters locally: This incident, occurring in Nashville, highlights a statewide and national trend of increased camping bans impacting individuals experiencing homelessness within Tennessee.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Authorities arrested Joseph Lamont Williams, 49, on June 28 for camping in an East Nashville public park, according to officials. They charged Williams with two felony counts of camping on state property. Williams spent nine days in jail following his arrest. A judge later dismissed the felony charges against him. Following his release, Williams returned to the same park where authorities initially found him. His arrest occurred as states enacted more camping bans. These regulations target homelessness in public areas.