People have thrown a phone and even a microwave at the store’s exterior. There has been violence toward staff from shoplifters. In just two years of business, Double Down, a skate zine turned vintage-clothing outlet on Valencia Street, has had its share of abuse.

“Constantly, there’s people who want to destroy the shop for no reason,” said Alexis Moore, who works there.

Until recently, Double Down owner Diana Musa and Moore tried to respond with compassion. Those who entered the shop and appeared to be in need were offered food or clothing. Then, the situation took a nauseating turn.

A person in green pants is cleaning a wet sidewalk by a storefront with a chalkboard sign. The area is dimly lit, with various items displayed in the window.

Musa spreads water around before closing up to discourage people from sleeping in the doorway. | Source:Minh Connors for The Standard

Two people sleep on the sidewalk under blankets beside a building, while a person walks by. A lit sign and a window with bars are visible on the wall.