They often strum their own tune of the streets of downtown, an audible reminder of the thousands of men and women who make the streets their home. 

But in the distance, a different beat threatens – one that will come with re-enforcements.

“We have a shelter that will give you three meals a day. They have a job placement program,” and HPD mounted patrol officer said.

For months, HPD says they’ve been inundated with complaints about crime committed by the homeless. 

“You have everything from crimes being committed to cars being broken into, urinating, defecating in a public place,” Captain Gregory Fremin said.

Officers said squatters building shacks on abandoned downtown properties are another problem.

Walter Brooks says he and a handful of others have been living underneath a billboard for five months.

Until now, only two officers have been assigned to deal with the issue on a full-time basis.

The new plan calls for all downtown officers to keep an eye and ear out for homeless crimes while investigating other cases.

Also on task are refresher courses on the laws and ordinances regarding the homeless and the distribution of information on shelters.

“Our goal is truly to just improve the quality of life and reduce fear and crime in the downtown area,” Fremin said.

So now they hope new steps will help fight an old problem.