Volunteers with Love Thy Neighbor were forced to shut down the sharing and relocate to private property. Unfortunately the people most in need of food aid are in this area where the sharing ban enforcement is focused. Courtesy YouTube/megahoboriffic.

A NINETY-year-old Good Samaritan could go to prison after he was arrested by police in Florida for serving a meal he had prepared to the homeless.

Arnold Abbot was distributing food to the needy in Fort Lauderdale when he was stopped by cops who said his actions were outlawed by a new local ordinance that bans the sharing of food in public places.

“One of the police officers came over and said ‘Drop that plate right now,’ as if I was carrying a weapon,” Mr Abbott told local TV network KHON2.

Apparently oblivious to the looming public relations disaster Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jack Seiler had earlier promised to arrest anyone breaking the new ordinance.

“Just because of media attention we don’t stop enforcing the law,” said Mayor Seiler.

Mr Abbot makes hundreds of meals every week for the homeless in Fort Lauderdale’s Sanctuary Church.

“I fully believe that I am my brother’s keeper. Love they neighbour as thy self,” said the church volunteer.

He was arrested and charged along with two church ministers. KHON2 said the three face up to 60 days in jail and a fine of $US500.

Mr Abbot was not put off by the arrest and promised to be back on the streets with food the following day.