Collier Gwin, owner of San Francisco art gallery Foster-Gwin Art & Antiques, has been arrested after a video of him spraying a homeless woman with a hose went viral in early January. Gwin turned his hose on the woman after allegedly asking her repeatedly to move from in front of his store. Gwin faced backlash after publicly defending his actions, and refusing to apologize. 


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Gwin was charged with misdemeanor battery “for the alleged intentional and unlawful spraying of water on and around a woman experiencing homelessness,” and faces up to six months and a fine of $2,000 if convicted. Despite the woman choosing not to press charges, prosecutors believe the video evidence will be enough to proceed. 


The original video struck a societal nerve, and many people came out in support of both parties. 




Some even called for Gwin's arrest, and it seems as if their requests have been answered. 



As with the initial incident, reactions to the arrest are divided.




Many people were left not knowing what to think, and feeling sympathy for both sides. 






Homelessness is a complex issue without any magic solutions, and sometimes coexistence is the only option. While the consequences for Collier Gwin may seem harsh to some, physically aggressive acts can never be the answer when another human being is involved.