Illegitimacy of Vagrancy Laws

Question

Description

Historically, vagrancy statutes have been overly broad and vague to allow law enforcement a great deal of discretion to arrest certain groups of people.  Critics argue these laws do nothing more than target and criminalize people’s status as homeless, unemployed, alcoholics, drug addicts, panhandlers, gamblers, etc.  Do you think these laws are legitimate regulations protecting the public OR do they criminalize poverty, homelessness, and misfortune?  Explain and provide support for your response using examples (e.g., link to a case, news story, video, etc.).  Discuss at least 2 recommendations that you think would be constructive alternatives to these criminalizing statutes.

I would need multiple sources. This is a discussion post.