Baytown Police Clear Homeless Encampment, Arrest Two After Discovering Hazardous Traps

BAYTOWN, Texas – Baytown police arrested two individuals and cleared an unauthorized encampment after discovering dangerous hazards on private property earlier this month.

On March 12, 2026, officers responded to the 6000 block of East Freeway to assist a property owner with removing individuals from a commercial site.

Officers located multiple camps set up inside a warehouse and a brick home on the property. While searching nearby wooded areas, officers discovered additional campsites connected by trails.

During that search, officers found improvised hazards along the trails, including sharpened wooden spikes and boards embedded with exposed nails. Authorities said the items posed a serious risk of injury.

Two individuals who had previously been warned about trespassing refused to leave and were taken into custody. A 45-year-old woman from New Mexico was charged with Criminal Trespass and Failure to Identify. A 29-year-old man from Huffman, Texas, was charged with Criminal Trespass.

After securing the area, the Baytown City Health Department assessed the property. Cleanup crews removed tires, shopping carts, and other debris that created environmental and safety concerns.

Officials emphasized that while homelessness is not a crime, unauthorized encampments on private property can present safety and sanitation risks.

Police thanked community members who reported the issue and encouraged residents to continue using the non-emergency line to report similar concerns. Authorities said they aim to work with property owners, community partners, and outreach services to keep areas safe while connecting individuals in need with available resources.