Police Oversee Venice Homeless Encampment Cleanup to Enforce City Regulations

Venice, Los Angeles – October 17, 2024 — As part of ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted on Main Street by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The effort focused on the removal of a homeless encampment, aiming to maintain public safety and cleanliness in the area. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers were present to ensure compliance with local regulations, specifically Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44. This code prohibits the erection of tents in city parks to keep public spaces safe and accessible for all residents and visitors. Notably, no citations were issued during the incident, reflecting the city's compassionate approach toward addressing homelessness. The multi-agency operation included the LAPD, the Department of Public Works, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., and a homeless outreach consultant from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). Workers donned protective gear as they carefully separated hazardous from non-hazardous waste to ensure a thorough and safe cleanup. This initiative is part of the city's ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness while improving public health and sanitation in high-traffic areas. The operation underscores Los Angeles's focus on balancing the maintenance of public spaces with compassionate responses to homelessness. These weekly cleanups are a component of a larger city effort aimed at addressing homelessness while ensuring public safety. The absence of citations during the cleanup highlights the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions.