[harimau777]

I think that society probably has the right to enforce basic social norms so I think it is reasonable to for society to intervene if someone is being threatening or violating basic norms (e.g. by defecating in the middle of the sidewalk). Both of which are common in the Tenderloin.

The problem that I see is: what options are available other than violating their freedom by forcing them to undergo treatment or locking them up? You can't, for example, fine someone who doesn't have anything. Besides, I think its unlikely that punishment would accomplish anything

So I guess I'm not sure I see a good solution to the problem.