Daisy Standoffs with Officers During Venice Beach Cleanup Over Pop-Up "Goddess Temple"

Venice, Los Angeles – October 4, 2024 — During the weekly homeless encampment cleanup at Venice Beach, a brief standoff occurred between "Daisy the Venice Healer" and Los Angeles Park Rangers, as they requested her to dismantle her "Goddess Temple," a 10x10 pop-up tent she had set up on the beach. Daisy initially refused, standing her ground when asked to take it down. 

After discussions with both the Park Rangers and LAPD officers, a peaceful agreement was reached. Daisy agreed to take down her temple voluntarily, allowing the cleanup task force to continue its operation. She dismantled the pop-up tent that serves as her temple, and the task force moved on to address other homeless encampments along Venice Beach.

This encounter occurred as part of a broader large-scale cleanup operation targeting homeless encampments. The operation, coordinated by a multi-agency task force, included the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., and the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), with a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office also present.

Earlier in the day, a local homeless artist was given 15 minutes to gather her belongings before sanitation workers cleared her encampment. While she was able to save her art and some personal items, the remaining belongings were discarded.

The operation proceeded smoothly, with workers clad in protective gear carefully sorting and removing hazardous and non-hazardous waste. LAHSA provided essential services to those affected, including food, water, and hygiene kits, emphasizing the city's focus on support rather than punishment. No citations for public camping were issued, reflecting the city's compassionate approach to addressing homelessness.

These weekly cleanups are a critical part of the city’s strategy to maintain safety and sanitation at Venice Beach while addressing the complex issue of homelessness. The efforts are overseen by Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, ensuring a balanced and humane approach to these ongoing challenges.