California mayor proposes giving away fentanyl to eradicate homelessness: “As much as they want”

R. Rex Parris, mayor of Lancaster (California) since 2008, has made headlines for proposing a highly controversial solution to the country’s homelessness problem: “Give them free fentanyl... as much fentanyl as they want,” he said during a televised appearance that is now circulating globally.

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The mayor of this Los Angeles County city made the blunt statement during an interview on FOX, in the context of a recent issue involving a clandestine homeless encampment in Lancaster. “I wish the president would authorize a purge. Because yes, we need to purge these people,” he said. “Is it harsh? Of course it’s harsh. But it’s my duty as mayor of Lancaster to protect working families. This situation is unsustainable,” he added in a later interview following the uproar.

The 72-year-old mayor later attempted to clarify the context and meaning of his remarks. He claimed he didn’t believe anyone would take his words literally, and added: “I was referring to the criminals who were released from prison and now make up 40% to 45% of the homeless population. They are responsible for most of our thefts, most of our rapes, and at least half of our murders.”

Controversial politician, prominent attorney

Parris, a trial attorney by profession, has held office in the Californian city where his well-known law firm is based for the past 17 years. While in office, in 2009, he served as lead counsel in securing a $370 million jury verdict against Georges Marciano, founder of Guess.

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As a politician, he’s also sparked outrage with other statements, such as suggesting that increasing the Asian and LGBTQ populations in the U.S. would reduce crime. In 2011, he accused the Los Angeles County Housing Authority of using Lancaster as a dumping ground for the poor and homeless.