Threat Management

Sacramento threatened by Anonymous over handling of homeless

The hacking group Anonymous has threatened the City of Sacramento, Calif., with an unnamed cyber action if it does not cease arresting homeless people.

The hacktivist collective purportedly posted a video stating that it believes the city's action of clearing out a homeless encampment on the steps of city hall violates the homeless people's 8th Amendment rights which prohibits the federal government from imposing excessive bail, excessive fines, or cruel and unusual punishment.

The video specifically pointed out a police action that took place on Jan. 2 where an encampment was closed out. Anonymous is insisting on a 60-day moratorium on any similar actions and is demanding the city try and find accommodations for its homeless.

“Should you decide our request is untenable or refuse to honor it, we will bring the formidable talent of Anonymous to your city,” the video stated. "We would prefer to work on solutions.”

The Sacramento Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are looking into the matter and city officials have spelled out the steps that already are being taken to help the homeless, according to The Sacramento Bee. The law enforcement agencies could not say if the video was posted by the group.

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