Judge Halts Berkeley Homeless Encampment Sweep Amidst Outrage Over Lack of Notice

Berkeley Encampment Sweep Sparks Outrage: Residents Claim Lack of Notice Berkeley, CA – June 5, 2025 – A city-ordered sweep of a homeless encampment in Berkeley has ignited controversy, with residents claiming they received little to no warning before their belongings were removed and their homes destroyed. The sweep, which took place this morning, left dozens of unhoused individuals scrambling to find new shelter. "I feel like they're forcing me to make my burden the public's burden," said Michael, one of the displaced residents, expressing frustration over the lack of notice and support. City officials counter that a February notice was sufficient and that the encampment posed a public health risk. However, Velena Jones of NBC Bay Area News reported that a judge issued an emergency injunction halting the sweep, citing insufficient prior notice. Yesica Prado, a Berkeley Homeless Union officer, echoed the residents' concerns, stating, "It just feels like backstabbing, you know? We've been in communication with the city, and I don't know where we're trying to find solutions." The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by unhoused communities and the complexities of addressing homelessness in urban areas. The judge's decision emphasizes the importance of due process and adequate notice in such operations. The city has yet to respond to requests for comment.