When you wander through certain parts of the city, you might come across scenes involving homeless people or drug addicts. Generally, these individuals tend to hang out in alleyways and avoid high-income areas, especially when security guards or police officers are present. However, one group of drug addicts was recently spotted lingering near Cathedral School in Portland, Oregon.
The mother of a student at that school was understandably upset when she saw a group of drug addicts so close to where her child studies. While most people might have called the police, this Portland mother decided to confront them directly. With her phone camera recording, she calmly informed them that using drugs within a school zone is considered a felony. She then warned them to leave the area within two minutes or she would call the bike squad.
One of the drug addicts, clearly not pleased with her warning, flipped her off. Others, however, began to get up and quietly leave. The man who gave her the middle finger stayed behind and started arguing, insisting they were on a public sidewalk and that she had no right to tell them to go away. He also told her to stop pointing her phone at him, to which she replied that they should get off her street.
Growing angry, the drug addict tried to swat at the woman’s phone, but she quickly moved back to avoid it. He then started marching toward her, forcing her to step back as he repeatedly demanded that she stop recording him while trying to cover his face with his arms. The woman warned him that she would pepper spray him if he didn’t back off.
When he continued threatening her, she finally used the spray, which made him retreat. Still, the drug addict tried to retaliate by picking up a stone and throwing it at her. Eventually, though, the group dispersed, and the video came to an end.
Internet users who saw the footage widely applauded the Portland mother for her bravery in standing up for the safety of local children. “Brave lady. It’s not being a Karen when you’re protecting kids,” one commenter wrote.
Others criticized the drug addict who confronted her, saying his argument made no sense. Some mocked him for expecting privacy while doing drugs on a public street. Many also praised the mother for standing her ground and not backing down. “Honestly, she was more restrained with the mace than she needed to be. She had every right to use it earlier and more,” another user commented.
