Judge rules Denver’s urban camping ban unconstitutional

DENVER (AP) - A Denver judge has ruled that an urban camping ban enacted in 2012 constitutes cruel and unusual punishment against the homeless.

Judge Johnny Barajas' decision follows a ruling by a federal appeals court that struck down a similar ban in Boise, Idaho last year.

The Denver Post reports that an appeal of Friday's decision is likely.

 City officials say the ban is carefully crafted and thoughtfully enforced. And Denver voters decided not to overturn the ban earlier this year.

In his decision, Barajas granted a motion by Jerry Burton, a homeless advocate, to dismiss a ticket he received for violating Denver’s ban.