The Riverside Police Department says Chase is in urgent need of long-term mental health and substance abuse care, but current California laws prevent officers from forcing him into treatment.
Police spokesperson Ryan Railsback explained that while officers regularly check on Chase and offer help, he does not meet the legal standard of being “gravely disabled” or a danger to himself or others. Because of that, police cannot place him into involuntary care.
“Homelessness is not a crime,” Railsback said, adding that Chase consistently and politely refuses offers to be taken to a shelter or treatment facility. “We can’t kidnap him,” he stressed, noting that officers have no legal leverage if someone declines help.
Chase, best known for his role on Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide, was recently spotted sleeping on a stoop in Riverside. A mental health crisis team had earlier placed him on a 72-hour psychiatric hold, but he was released and returned to living on the streets shortly afterward.
Former The Mighty Ducks star Shaun Weiss, who has become an advocate for Chase, expressed frustration over the situation. Weiss says Chase clearly needs structured, long-term help and believes the system is failing him.
Police also pointed out that even if Chase were arrested for drug possession or paraphernalia, those offenses would be misdemeanors. In most cases, he would be released quickly with a court summons, putting him right back where he started.
Authorities say Chase has been transient in Southern California for years and is allegedly struggling with meth addiction. Despite repeated outreach, police say their hands remain tied.
“We’re doing everything we can within the law,” Railsback said. “But without his consent, there’s only so much we’re allowed to do.”
The situation highlights the growing tension between public safety, personal rights, and mental health care — and leaves advocates worried that someone clearly in need may continue to slip through the cracks.
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