There has to be a purpose behind punishment, or essentially, it boils down to “I don’t like the way it looks” or “because we said so.” Either sentiment applies when looking at Boulder’s camping ban. Does a camping ban deter people from camping in public places? An unhoused person in public space is often met with hostility by civilians and law enforcement alike. The means exist, but the will is lacking, and in cases such as Feet Forward and Grants Pass, is overpowered by a cruel thirst for punishment, reminiscent of vagrancy laws that existed until the 1970’s. Furthermore, eating and sleeping are innocent activities and only because of the where and when of the camping ban – are deemed criminal.