He Helps Homeless On TikTok, But St. Paul Officials Say It’s Harrassment
A man has been banned from St. Paul city parks for 180 days because officials believe he has been harassing vulnerable adults and profiting off of them by using his TikTok platform. Josh Liljenquist features philanthropic videos where he approaches homeless people and gives them money, food, items, and sometimes even sets up fundraising accounts for them.
TikTok Influencer Videos Show Helping Homeless + Vulnerable Adults
In some videos, Josh pretends to be homeless to see how others (including other homeless) will treat him. During their conversations, sometimes Liiljenquist will get them to open up about their story and then surprise them with a generous gift.
Officials Say It's Continued Routine Harassment Of Vulnerable Adults
However, officials say there is more going on behind the scenes. In a letter from the Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, shared by KSTP, officials say that Liljenquist "routinely breaches the peace within the park by going to the site to harass, record, and profit from vulnerable adults residing in the park without said individuals' permission.
Banned From All State Parks For 180 Days
They also documented his intent to hold an unlicensed event at the park on April 11th, and failing to get approval from the city.
The letter continues to say that, effective immediately, Josh Liljenquist is to be banned from Pig's Eye Park and all Saint Paul Parks and Recreation property for 180 days, until October 3, 2026.
Liljenquist has the option to request a hearing.
Are These TikTok Videos Helping Or Hurting?
At face value, on the TikTok page, it looks like he's helping others and spreading kindness. There are some genuine interactions with people happy to help. But the city officials are seeing everything, and not just what he's putting out on the TikTok account.
There's nothing wrong with helping someone in need through crowdfunding. It's a trend on social media. But is approaching homeless people without their consent going too far?