On the morning of Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Santa Monica Police officers from the Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) issued citations to two homeless individuals found camping in a tent at the Santa Monica Pier parking lot. The camping activity violated Santa Monica Municipal Code 4.08.095, which prohibits camping in public areas, including beaches, streets, parks, and government properties. The code strictly forbids such activities to maintain public safety and preserve these spaces for public use.
After receiving the citations, the campers asked if they could have some time to dismantle the tent and gather their belongings. The officers granted their request, allowing them additional time and indicating they would return in an hour to check on the situation.
This incident highlights the Santa Monica Police Department's ongoing efforts to address the complexities of homelessness in the city. The Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) plays a key role in supporting vulnerable individuals through outreach, relationship-building, and collaboration with various city and county agencies. HLP's focus is on prioritizing mental health services and offering alternatives to incarceration, ensuring that those in need receive appropriate care and resources.
The program works closely with the Santa Monica Fire Department, Human Services Division, and the City Attorney’s Office to provide a holistic approach to homelessness, aiming to improve community well-being while upholding city regulations designed to maintain public safety and shared spaces.
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