That annoying solicitor that won’t take “no” for an answer and refuses to leave?

They may be eligible for arrest in Lathrop.

Last week the Lathrop Police Department made a social media post reminding the public that “aggressive solicitation” is a violation of the Lathrop Municipal Code.

The code bars people from soliciting, asking, or begging within 50 feet of a private residence if they are doing so in an “aggressive manner” – which includes causing the person being solicited feel for their safety, preventing those from being solicited from leaving, using violent gestures towards people being solicited, or touching the person being solicited without their consent.

The code also makes it illegal to attempt to solicit at a residence where a “no soliciting” sign is clearly posted at the residence within the parameters specified by the code.

While there are lots of legitimate companies that use door-to-door sales tactics, exchanges between homeowners and those that are overly aggressive when attempting to solicit them often spread quickly on social media – garnering support from neighboring residents that may have similar experiences.

While Lathrop’s Municipal Code would include aggressive behavior by panhandlers or those begging for money, it also includes those that visit residences on a door-to-door basis as well -  whether that the purpose is for sales, donations, or any other non-personal means.

The State of California has additional guidelines in place for door to door solicitations – including a law that requires organizations that use minors in those solicitations to register with the State of California for oversight.

Some communities in California have adopted strict rules that prohibit door to door sales without first registering with the city in processes that include a background check and require a police-issued ID card that must be worn.

To contact Bulletin reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.