In an effort to protect the bustling reputation of the Las Vegas Strip and ensure the safety of its millions of tourists, discussions are underway about possibly reinstating the Resort Corridor Court. This program, which operated between 2023 and 2024, specifically targeted crime in the Strip area by issuing a record number of “order-out” orders. These orders barred individuals from entering certain locations, with violations leading to trespassing charges. The orders primarily affected homeless individuals, who often found themselves with such orders due to trespassing violations.
Resort operators and prosecutors are among the strongest advocates for bringing back the Resort Corridor Court. They argue that it played a crucial role in safeguarding the Strip’s image, as highlighted by data showing that 4,100 orders were issued during its operation. Advocates believe the program was effective in maintaining order, with the Nevada Resort Association being a vocal supporter.
Governor Joe Lombardo has indicated plans to reconvene the legislature to address unfinished business, with many anticipating that the Resort Corridor Court will be a topic of discussion. The Las Vegas Review-Journal has been following the story closely, suggesting that the court’s potential return is a priority for many in the gambling industry.
However, the program has its detractors. Critics argue that it disproportionately targets homeless individuals and fails to address the root causes of crime on the Strip. Assistant Public Defender John Piro questioned the fairness of a system he believes serves mainly the interests of wealthy resorts. He expressed concerns that the program effectively criminalizes poverty and homelessness, leading to unnecessary incarcerations funded by taxpayers.
Deputy Public Defender Olivia Miller, who once served as a member of the Resort Corridor Court, echoed these sentiments. She pointed out that the primary drivers of crime—homelessness, mental health issues, and addiction—were not adequately addressed by the program. According to her, without tackling these underlying issues, the court merely provided a temporary solution.
Athar Haseebullah, executive director of the ACLU of Nevada, criticized the program for predominantly targeting non-violent offenders, suggesting that it served more to remove “undesirable” individuals from the Strip rather than genuinely enhance public safety. While proponents argue that addressing minor crimes can prevent more serious offenses, Haseebullah feels that such measures unjustly target vulnerable populations.
The debate extends to the constitutionality of the 2022 ordinance that enabled the issuance of order-out orders. Critics question its legal standing, raising concerns about civil rights violations and the ethical implications of such a directive.
While the conversation continues, the key question remains: can the proposed solutions effectively balance safety, justice, and compassion? Proponents of the court believe that reinstating it will restore order and protect Las Vegas’s vibrant tourism industry. In contrast, detractors insist that a more humane approach, addressing the broader socio-economic factors at play, is necessary for long-lasting change.
As Las Vegas considers its next steps, the outcome of this debate could set a precedent for how cities across the nation manage similar challenges. The Strip’s allure as a global entertainment hub depends on both its safety and its ability to adapt to social issues. Therefore, the decisions made in the coming months will likely resonate far beyond Nevada’s borders.
Ultimately, this complex issue underscores the ongoing struggle between maintaining public order and upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their circumstances. Whether or not the Resort Corridor Court is reinstated, the dialogue it has sparked will likely continue to influence policy decisions in Las Vegas and beyond.
