Santa Monica Beaches Open for Non-Water Activities Amid Ocean Water Advisory

Santa Monica's iconic three miles of sandy beaches remain open for recreational and non-ocean activities, despite the recent Ocean Water Quality Advisory issued by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH). Visitors and residents are encouraged to enjoy biking, beach sports, and other activities on the sand, while staying informed about water quality updates.

The advisory, in effect as of this week, warns beachgoers to avoid ocean water at Surfrider Beach, Las Flores State Beach, Santa Monica State Beach, and Dockweiler State Beach due to fire debris runoff from recent wildfires. LACDPH also advises avoiding any fire debris on the beach and recommends checking the interactive map at PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/beach for the latest water quality updates.

“On top of the traumatic loss our neighbors have faced, the environmental impacts of the Palisades Fire are heartbreaking. We’re grateful that Santa Monica was largely spared from damage,” said Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete. “As always, Santa Monica remains a fun and beautiful place to visit and enjoy an escape, with great shopping and dining, gorgeous natural scenery and beaches, and mostly sunny skies. We want to thank all those who continue to come out to patronize local businesses that really need help in these trying times. Your support means everything.”

Local businesses, which have faced challenges due to the fires in the region, welcome the clarification from public health officials. The vibrant Santa Monica visitor economy continues to provide unique experiences for travelers and locals alike.

“Santa Monica, including our beautiful beaches and diverse attractions, remains open and fully ready to welcome visitors. Our city continues to offer a vibrant and unforgettable experience for all who come to enjoy its unique charm,” said Santa Monica Travel & Tourism President/CEO Misti Kerns. “With Dine LA running through Feb. 7 and a lineup of special events for Lunar New Year, Valentine’s Day, and Black History Month, there’s a lot to explore in our eight neighborhoods. We look forward to hosting travelers and ensuring they have an exceptional visit in Santa Monica.”

For residents concerned about health impacts from fire cleanup, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is hosting a virtual town hall meeting on Friday, Jan. 31, at 6 p.m. Details for the event are available online.

For more information about Santa Monica, visit santamonica.gov.

Shohei Ohtani Steers Fire Truck During Dodgers' Visit to Pacific Palisades Firefighters!

PACIFIC PALISADES, CA — Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, alongside teammates Emmet Sheehan and Ben Casparius, paid a visit to Los Angeles Fire Station 69 on Thursday, January 30, 2025, as part of the Dodgers Love LA Community Tour presented by Bank of America. The visit came in the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7 and scorched over 23,000 acres across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and sections of the San Fernando Valley. The wildfire, fueled by relentless Santa Ana winds and prolonged drought conditions, resulted in 12,000 structures destroyed, the displacement of 150,000 residents, and at least five fatalities. Though recent rainfall has helped extinguish the flames, it has also increased the risk of mudslides in the burned areas. With evacuation orders lifted on January 27, recovery efforts, including debris removal and utility restoration, are now underway. During their visit, the Dodgers players toured the fire station, met with firefighters and paramedics, and expressed their gratitude for their heroic efforts. Ohtani climbed into the tiller bucket of a fire truck, helping steer the massive rig through the Palisades, while his teammates rode along and jumped on fire engines for a closer look at the department’s operations. As part of their community outreach, the Dodgers also donated $350,000 and an additional $10,000 to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, providing critical support for firefighting resources, equipment, and training. The Dodgers Love LA Tour continues with stops across the city, honoring first responders and giving back to the community through various charitable initiatives.

California Conservation Corps Works to Protect Ocean from Contamination in Malibu Fire Recovery

On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, crews from the California Conservation Corps (CCC) were seen installing silt socks, straw wattles, and silt fencing around fire-damaged properties and vehicles at Malibu Beach. The effort is part of the CCC’s ongoing mission to protect local watersheds following the Pacific Palisades Fire.

The Palisades Fire, which broke out on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades, quickly escalated into a catastrophic event due to fierce Santa Ana winds and prolonged drought conditions. The wildfire burned more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents from Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and parts of the San Fernando Valley. At least five lives were lost, and many others were injured. Powerful winds hampered firefighting efforts, grounding aerial support and allowing the flames to spread rapidly. While recent rainfall helped extinguish the fire, it also created new hazards, including the threat of mudslides and debris flows in the already devastated region. By January 27, 2025, evacuation orders were lifted, allowing recovery efforts such as debris removal and utility restoration to begin.

According to California Conservation Corps (CCC) Public Information Officer Chris Van Horne, the CCC has deployed 26 teams from across the state in collaboration with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). Crews from the Tahoe and Solano centers are working to mitigate environmental damage caused by the fire. These measures aim to prevent hazardous contaminants from burned materials from entering watersheds and the ocean, a task especially critical in Malibu due to the proximity of fire-damaged properties to the coastline. With rain and runoff posing a significant threat to the area’s waterways, the CCC’s efforts are vital for safeguarding environmental and public health.

The CCC, an emergency response agency with nearly 50 years of experience, engages young adults aged 18 to 25 in paid service to the state. These crews, who typically focus on forestry and trail work, have been mobilized to assist in recovery efforts across Los Angeles County. Their efforts in Malibu are part of Cal OES’s Watershed and Debris Flow Task Force and represent an important first step in the region’s recovery.

For more information about the California Conservation Corps and its initiatives, visit ccc.ca.gov.

PALISADES FIRE AFTERMATH: Volunteer Ministers Assist Families in Salvaging Belongings

Volunteer Ministers Assist Homeowners in Palisades Fire Aftermath

Pacific Palisades, CA — On Tuesday, January 28, 2025, the Church of Scientology's Volunteer Ministers were on the ground assisting in the aftermath of the devastating Palisades Fire. Among those receiving aid were local residents Jarad Fisher and his wife Lara, who worked with the volunteers to sift through the remains of their home, searching for any personal items that survived the blaze.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited earlier this month, left a trail of destruction across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and neighboring communities. Fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds and exacerbated by drought conditions, the wildfire scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced approximately 150,000 residents. While recent rains helped quell the flames, they also brought new challenges, such as the risk of mudslides and debris flows in the affected areas.

In response, the Volunteer Ministers have mobilized to provide critical relief to those impacted. Operating from their base at the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles, they have delivered water, food, and essential supplies to affected families. Their efforts extend beyond immediate aid, offering hands-on assistance in the recovery process by helping homeowners salvage belongings and begin rebuilding their lives.

The Volunteer Ministers program, established more than three decades ago by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, is rooted in the belief that individuals can make a meaningful difference in their communities. The group has become known for its humanitarian efforts, assisting in disaster zones and collaborating with public service organizations worldwide.

“Something can be done about it” is the motto that drives the Volunteer Ministers, whether they are responding to local disasters or global crises. From the aftermath of 9/11 to Southeast Asia’s 2004 tsunami and the 2010 Haiti earthquake, they have brought hope and practical assistance to those in need.

As the Palisades community begins to recover, the Volunteer Ministers remain committed to aiding residents through this challenging time. For more information or to seek assistance, visit their Los Angeles Fires Resource Center.

Recovery efforts in Pacific Palisades and neighboring areas are ongoing, with crews focusing on debris removal, utility restoration, and supporting displaced residents as they rebuild their lives.

Polish ‘Forrest Gump’ Completes Epic U.S. Journey with Police Escort at Santa Monica Pier

Tomasz Sobania, the 26-year-old Polish ultra-runner dubbed the "Forrest Gump of Poland," completed his monumental cross-country journey across the United States on Sunday, finishing at the iconic Santa Monica Pier. The 3,300-mile expedition, which began on September 15 in New York City, culminated in a grand finale escorted by Santa Monica Police officers, including Police Sergeant Woodham, an avid runner who joined Sobania for the final stretch. Sobania’s journey, which involved running a marathon (26 miles) every single day for five months, was designed to connect with Americans and experience the country in a deeply personal way. Along his route, he carried the Freedom Flag of the United States, which was presented to him in Washington D.C. by members of Congress. The final leg through Santa Monica was a celebration, as fans and followers gathered at the pier to greet and congratulate Sobania. The Santa Monica Police Department’s squad car led the way, ensuring a safe and triumphant conclusion to his epic journey. The runner, who has completed other major endurance challenges in Europe, called this adventure a unique opportunity to "get to know America coast to coast." “This was not just about running. It was about people, connections, and pushing beyond limits,” said Sobania, whose mantra, “Do More Than You Ever Thought Possible,” has inspired many along his route. His previous achievements include running 500 miles across Poland and completing 950 miles from Poland to Rome, where he met Pope Francis. Sobania’s commitment to endurance running and cultural connection solidifies his place as a global ambassador of perseverance and unity. Santa Monica, with its sunny coastline and vibrant atmosphere, provided the perfect setting for the culmination of this inspiring journey. Fans cheered as Sobania crossed the finish line, adding one final unforgettable moment to his extraordinary adventure.

Angel of Hope: Artist Honors Palisades Fire Heroes with Stunning Mural on Santa Monica Beach

On a rainy Sunday, January 26, 2025, artist Kuba Skrzypek (@skrzypekstudio) a wall at Perry's Beach Café into a powerful tribute to the resilience and heroism of Los Angeles firefighters. The mural, featuring a firefighter rescuing a woman with angelic wings, symbolizes the city's enduring spirit in the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire. Skrzypek, a visiting artist from Poland, took to the brush during his short vacation in Los Angeles. The wings on the woman are a nod to the City of Angels, while the mural serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery displayed during the fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025. Later that evening, Skrzypek was set to head to the airport to return to Poland. The Palisades Fire left an indelible mark on the community, scorching over 23,000 acres, destroying more than 12,000 structures, and displacing over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. As recovery efforts continue, this mural captures the hope and strength of a city still healing. Skrzypek’s artwork not only immortalizes the heroism of first responders but also provides a focal point for reflection and unity amid the ongoing rebuilding efforts.

President Trump Tours Pacific Palisades Fire Damage with K9 Units on Scene

On Friday, January 24, 2025, President Donald Trump visited Pacific Palisades to witness firsthand the devastation caused by the Palisades Fire. During his visit, President Trump boarded Marine One for an aerial tour of the fire-ravaged region, including Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. In the video, Marine One can be seen flying over the impacted areas, showcasing the extent of the destruction. Following the helicopter tour, President Trump visited Sunset Boulevard, where he and First Lady Melania Trump walked through a neighborhood lined with the remnants of destroyed homes. President Trump spoke with firefighters and met with a few residents, acknowledging their resilience and the efforts of first responders working tirelessly in the aftermath of the disaster. The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, scorched more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and displaced more than 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with local, state, and federal agencies collaborating to clear debris, restore utilities, and ensure the area is safe for residents to rebuild. This visit underscores the ongoing national attention and support for the impacted communities as they navigate the challenging path to recovery.

Miniature Horse Plays Keyboard to Bring Smiles to Evacuated Residents of Palisades Fire

On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, residents waiting in line to be escorted back to their homes by LAPD as part of the Palisades Fire repopulation efforts received an unexpected dose of joy. Victoria Nodiff-Netanel, founder of Mini Therapy Horses, visited the site with her eight-year-old miniature therapy horse, Blue Moon, to bring smiles to those impacted by the devastating fire.

Blue Moon, a highly trained miniature horse, entertained residents by playing the keyboard, offering a brief moment of lightheartedness in the midst of recovery. “It’s hard not to smile when you see a horse playing a keyboard, no matter what’s happened,” said Nodiff-Netanel.

Mini Therapy Horses, a non-profit organization founded in 2008, is a recognized leader in equine-assisted activities (EAA) and equine-assisted therapy (EAT) with miniature horses. Their dedicated teams regularly visit hospitals, veterans' facilities, family shelters, and other organizations to provide comfort and support to individuals in need. Some of their frequent stops include Shriners for Children Medical Center, Ronald McDonald Houses in Pasadena and Los Angeles, and UCLA Medical Centers in Santa Monica and Westwood.

In addition to regular visits, Mini Therapy Horses is part of the Los Angeles Mayor’s Crisis Response Team (CRT). The organization’s highly trained teams respond to traumatic incidents, offering resources and support to survivors. They have assisted in major crises, including the San Bernardino, Las Vegas, and Thousand Oaks mass shootings, as well as the Woolsey Fire.

Mini Therapy Horses’ work has gained widespread recognition, with appearances in the Rose Parade® and features in People Magazine, National Geographic, and The Kelly Clarkson Show. Their mission is to bring calm, comfort, and happiness to those experiencing trauma, a purpose they fulfill with professionalism and compassion.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, burned over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Recovery efforts remain ongoing, with agencies and organizations like Mini Therapy Horses providing essential support to those affected.

As residents continue to navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives, the presence of Blue Moon and the Mini Therapy Horses team offers a heartwarming reminder of resilience, kindness, and the healing power of a small act of care.

California Highway Patrol Officers (CHP) Escort Residents Back to Pacific Palisades After Fire Evacuations

On Monday, January 20, 2025, California Highway Patrol officers escorted convoys of residents along the Pacific Coast Highway to the Pacific Palisades Highlands as part of the repopulation process. Residents were first directed to Parking Lot 3 North at 1150 Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, where Los Angeles Police officers verified their identification to confirm residency before allowing access to their homes in the Palisades.

Repopulation efforts follow the Los Angeles Fire Department’s (LAFD) announcement on Sunday, January 19, reducing evacuation orders to resident-only access for Zones LOS-0767-J and LOS-0767-G. Residents in Zone LOS-0767-J are required to participate in escorted convoys, conducted daily between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., to safely navigate back to their properties.

Evacuation zones LOS-0767-J include areas north of Santa Ynez Road, south of Temescal Fire Road, east of E Topanga Fire Road and Colina Drive, and west of Temescal Fire Road. Zone LOS-0767-G covers areas north of Observation Drive, south of Topanga Canyon Boulevard, east of Montau Drive, and west of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.

Residents must present proof of residency, such as a photo ID with their name and physical address, to gain access. Officials urge residents to have documents ready to ensure smooth verification and efficient repopulation.

Meanwhile, evacuation warnings for additional zones, including LOS-0767-C, LOS-0767-B, LOS-Q0762-A, and LOS-Q0762-C, have been lifted, allowing those residents to return without restrictions.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. Recovery efforts remain ongoing, with search and rescue teams, utility workers, and local agencies working to restore essential services and clear debris to pave the way for rebuilding.

As residents begin returning, officials remind the public to exercise caution and adhere to all safety guidelines as recovery and rebuilding efforts continue. For more information and updates on evacuation zones, visit the Los Angeles Fire Department’s website.

Hazmat Teams Tackle Burnt Properties Along PCH in Malibu After Palisades Fire

On Monday, January 20, 2025, Hazmat technicians from GrayMar Environmental Services, Inc. were spotted in Malibu working on the fire-ravaged properties along the Pacific Coast Highway near Topanga Canyon Road. These properties, including the Malibu Feed Bin, Rosenthal Malibu Winery, and Topanga Ranch Motel, were among the many businesses completely destroyed by the devastating Palisades Fire.

GrayMar's crew was seen carefully collecting hazardous materials such as propane tanks and outdoor heaters, along with other debris, as part of the cleanup process. Their work ensures that hazardous items are safely removed, a critical step in preparing the area for rebuilding.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, burned through over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. The scale of the devastation has made environmental cleanup and recovery efforts, like those led by GrayMar, essential to restoring the community.

GrayMar Environmental Services is a leading provider of safe, cost-effective solutions for complex environmental challenges. With over five decades of combined experience, their highly trained personnel specialize in tackling high-profile environmental projects with professionalism and innovation. Their work in Malibu is part of their mission to deliver practical solutions while ensuring the safety and sustainability of impacted areas.

California Highway Patrol Officers Tow Burnt Vehicles Along PCH in Malibu After Devastating Blaze

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers worked along the Pacific Coast Highway to remove vehicles destroyed in the Palisades Fire. The vehicles, burnt beyond recognition, required meticulous efforts to identify their owners before being towed. Officers carefully located and verified the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) to match them with registered owners. These vehicles were among the countless losses caused by the Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025. The fire ravaged over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. The removal of burnt vehicles is a critical step in the ongoing recovery process, ensuring that Pacific Coast Highway is cleared for safe travel and infrastructure restoration. This effort complements broader search and recovery operations, including debris clearance, identifying remains, and preparing the region for rebuilding. As work progresses, residents and motorists are urged to remain patient and vigilant as recovery teams, including CHP and other agencies, continue their efforts to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

Rocky Waters: Firefighters and Lifeguards Rush to Save Stranded Boaters in Malibu

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, Los Angeles County Lifeguards, Firefighters, and Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a boat that washed ashore at Malibu Beach. The vessel may have struck rocks before drifting ashore. Four individuals aboard managed to swim to safety, where firefighters provided medical assistance. Two of the individuals were transported away on stretchers, though their injuries remain unknown. Following the rescue efforts, a lifeguard boat arrived to tow the damaged vessel back to the marina. The incident remains under investigation.

Cadaver Dogs Deployed as Search Teams Examine Fire-Ravaged Homes on Malibu’s Pacific Coast Highway

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, a multi-agency task force comprising 30 highly traine d members   from Regional Task Force 12 (RTF-12) and their K9 units, including several cadaver dogs, were deployed to Malibu. Their mission: to assist in the aftermath of the devastating fires, focusing on a stretch of homes along the Pacific Coast Highway that were completely destroyed.

RTF-12, an Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team based in Santa Barbara County, specializes in responding to large-scale disasters such as earthquakes, structural collapses, and other incidents requiring heavy rescue equipment. For this deployment, the team included personnel from Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara City, Santa Maria, and Vandenberg Fire Departments, with additional support from the Alhambra City Fire Department.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. As recovery efforts continue, the work of search and rescue teams is vital for identifying remains, clearing debris, and laying the groundwork for rebuilding.

RTF-12’s deployment showcases the critical role of urban search and rescue teams in post-disaster scenarios. By combining the expertise of firefighters, medical professionals, engineers, and K9 search units, the task force demonstrates the power of coordinated emergency response.

Residents affected by the fire are encouraged to remain patient and stay informed as local, regional, and state teams work tirelessly to restore safety and assist in recovery efforts.

𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗔𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: U.S. EPA Leads Coalition Inspecting Palisades Homes After Devastating Fire

A coalition of environmental experts and specialized organizations, including the U.S. Coast Guard National Strike Force Pacific Strike Team, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), Republic Services Fire Hazmat, and the Los ANgeles Fire Department was seen inspecting homes in Pacific Palisades on Saturday, January 18, 2025. These inspections are part of ongoing recovery efforts following the catastrophic Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, 2025. The wildfire burned over 23,000 acres, caused at least 27 fatalities, and destroyed more than 12,000 structures, displacing over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard National Strike Force Pacific Strike Team (PST), recognized globally for its expertise in hazardous substance response and emergency management, brought its specialized skills to the inspections. Alongside them, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency worked to ensure that environmental and public health risks were minimized, consistent with its mission to protect human health and the environment. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) assessed properties for contamination and toxic hazards, furthering its mission to protect California’s communities and environment from harmful substances. Republic Services Fire Hazmat, a leader in waste management and hazardous material handling, played a key role in ensuring the safe disposal and recycling of fire-impacted debris. Together, these organizations form a collaborative force dedicated to safeguarding public health, restoring the environment, and helping the community rebuild in the aftermath of the disaster. Their efforts highlight the critical importance of specialized expertise and coordinated action during large-scale recovery operations, providing hope and a foundation for resilience for the affected residents.

LAPD Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort to Military Police and Firefighters Amid Palisades Fire Recovery

Amid the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Palisades Fire, a team of Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Therapy Dogs visited firefighters and National Guard Military Police stationed at the recovery staging area at Will Rogers State Beach. The therapy dogs, including Scout, a seasoned black Labrador Retriever, and Sonic, a Mexican hairless breed known as Xoloitzcuintli, brought “tail-wagging therapy” to the front lines. The first responders took a moment to relax, pet the dogs, and capture selfies, experiencing a moment of calm amid the chaos. These therapy dogs are part of the Blue Line Dogs initiative, which is dedicated to recruiting, training, and deploying Therapy Dog teams to support First Responders. Blue Line Dogs’ mission is not only to provide comfort but also to educate First Responders and the public about the importance of Therapy Dog programs in enhancing mental health and wellness. The organization raises funds to support its volunteer dog teams through training classes, public education, and morale merchandise sales. This funding helps procure, train, and maintain therapy dogs, ensuring they are ready to assist those on the front lines. “We listen for the whispers, not just the cries,” said Gil Esant Trius, founder of Blue Line Dogs. The organization’s comprehensive approach includes training handlers in psychological first aid, crisis response, and suicide prevention. This ensures that the teams are well-prepared to address the unique challenges faced by First Responders. Blue Line Dogs also collaborates with First Responder agencies through agreements to provide certified therapy teams. Their efforts extend to mutual aid requests from outside agencies, emphasizing the wide-reaching impact of their mission. The Palisades Fire has scorched over 23,000 acres, leaving Pacific Palisades and surrounding communities grappling with its aftermath. As recovery efforts continue, visits from therapy dogs remind those on the front lines of the importance of mental wellness. For more information or to support Blue Line Dogs, visit Blue Line Dogs L.A.. Donations and morale merchandise sales contribute directly to the training and maintenance of these vital therapy teams.

Police Arrest Suspects Roaming Evacuation Zones: Burglary Tools, Fake Plates, and Drugs Seized

Santa Monica, CA – Over a seven-day period, Santa Monica Police Department officers made more than 40 arrests in the Palisades Fire evacuation zones, with charges ranging from burglary and possession of burglary tools to narcotics violations and outstanding warrants. Below is a brief account of key arrests made during the operation:

January 9, 4:39 PM – 10th Street/Carlyle:

Two individuals, Miguel Angel Dorantes and Dominic Pacheco Magana, were arrested after officers stopped a van without proper license plates. Police found burglary tools, gloves, and a ski mask in the vehicle. Authorities believe the suspects may have been planning residential burglaries.

January 10, 1:00 AM – 4th Street/Alta Ave:

Officers stopped Christensen Alexander Weithorn, who was allegedly carrying a concealed handgun and ammunition in violation of vehicle code regulations.

January 10, 4:20 AM – 4th Street/Alta Ave:

Four individuals—Markhi Toles, Joshua Charles, Fernando Garcia Jr., and Khamari Toles—were arrested after a traffic stop. Officers found key fobs, a key fob programmer, and burglary tools, leading to suspicion of vehicle theft and conspiracy to commit a felony.

January 11, 10:00 PM – 400 Block San Vicente:

Joshua Kaliel Love was arrested after being found in an apartment garage. Police allege he had burglary tools and methamphetamine in his possession.

January 11, 9:00 PM – 100 Block 10th Street:

Adrian Moreno Hernandez, Moises Becerra Garcia, and Carmen Alicia Lopez were detained during a traffic stop. Officers reported finding narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and burglary tools in their vehicle. Hernandez allegedly provided false identification.

January 11, 11:00 PM – Ocean Avenue/San Vicente Boulevard:

Phillip Michael Briones was detained for curfew violation. Police say he was also in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

January 12, 7:20 PM – Lincoln Boulevard/Montana Avenue:

Timyan Exequiel Mujica was arrested after officers discovered he had an outstanding felony warrant for grand theft. A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered over $3,000 in eyeglasses, suspected to be stolen.

January 13, 1:25 AM – 11th Street/San Vicente Boulevard:

Luis Alberto Perez and Tomas Feliciano Mateo were arrested during a traffic stop. Mateo was allegedly driving under the influence, and Perez had an outstanding warrant from Kern County.

Police Chief Batista commended the officers for their vigilance and professionalism, noting that their proactive work significantly reduced crime in the affected neighborhoods. The department, supported by mutual aid partners and the National Guard, continues to enforce curfews and prevent unauthorized access to the evacuation zones.

Residents are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

National Guard Military Police Deployed in Santa Monica to Assist SMPD Amid Palisades Fire Emergency

In response to the ongoing Palisades Fire, the 330th Military Police of the California National Guard have been deployed to Santa Monica to assist the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) in safeguarding the community. The National Guard units are stationed at key traffic control points throughout the city, ensuring emergency vehicles can move without obstruction and that public safety is upheld. SMPD Chief Ramon Batista underscored the importance of this collaboration: “Having the National Guard in our city and working side by side with the men and women of the Santa Monica Police Department should send a strong message to those who would defy evacuation orders to prey on Santa Monicans in this moment of duress. Criminal actions will not be tolerated. Our officers are vigilant, and we are fully prepared to arrest and hold offenders accountable.” The deployment enhances SMPD’s capacity to maintain order during the emergency. Officers are proactively patrolling warning and evacuation zones, working closely with mutual aid partners, and ensuring a swift response to any emerging issues. Residents should be aware that there will be no entry into Pacific Palisades or any Los Angeles evacuation zone through Santa Monica checkpoints. SMPD thanks the community for their cooperation as they navigate this situation together, with safety remaining the top priority.

Santa Monica Issues Nighttime Curfew and Emergency Order as Palisades Fire Escalates

 Palisades Fire Prompts Nighttime Curfew and Local Emergency Order in Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — In response to the escalating impacts of the Palisades Fire, the city of Santa Monica has issued a local emergency order, including a nighttime curfew in mandatory evacuation zones and other critical measures to support emergency efforts.

City Manager David White signed the order late Wednesday, and the Santa Monica City Council is expected to convene a special session within seven days to officially certify it. The curfew will be in effect from sunset to sunrise in areas under a mandatory evacuation order, aiding law enforcement in safeguarding affected neighborhoods.

“The Palisades Fire has placed nearly 2,500 households in Santa Monica under mandatory evacuation orders, with over 8,000 additional households under a voluntary evacuation warning,” said Mayor Lana Negrete. “This emergency order ensures that first responders have the necessary tools to protect residents, manage the crisis, and support eventual recovery.”

Santa Monica Police, along with mutual aid law enforcement agencies, have been actively assisting in evacuations and protecting property throughout the city. “The local emergency order enhances our ability to secure evacuated areas,” said White. “It helps prevent unauthorized individuals from entering these zones, especially those who may seek to exploit the situation.”

Key provisions of the local emergency order include:

• Temporary school relocation: Impacted schools may operate in non-residential zones.
• Parking enforcement suspension: Preferential parking rules are suspended for residents hosting evacuees.
• Price gouging protection: Emergency and recovery goods and services are protected from price gouging.
• Eviction restrictions: Residential tenants providing temporary shelter to evacuees and their pets are shielded from eviction.
• Construction halt: Non-essential construction in evacuation areas is temporarily prohibited, with extended deadlines granted for ongoing projects.

Residents can stay updated on evacuation orders, available services, and recovery resources by visiting SantaMonica.gov.

𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗥𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗠 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗘: Santa Monica Police Fortifies Pier with New High-Tech Barricades

In response to the horrific act of terrorism in New Orleans, the Santa Monica Police Department has increased its security presence across the city and taken proactive steps to ensure public safety.

On January 2, 2024, police officers, in collaboration with Jovani Iraheta, Chief Engineer of Meridian Rapid Defense Group, installed the Archer Beam Gate System at the Santa Monica Pier. This state-of-the-art barricade is designed to enhance public safety by preventing unauthorized vehicles from entering crowded areas, ensuring the protection of pedestrians while slowing vehicles to a safe stop.

In a statement, the Santa Monica Police Department extended their condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and reassured the community of their commitment to safety. Chief Batista emphasized the department’s heightened visible presence in high-traffic areas, continuous monitoring for potential threats, and collaboration with regional and federal law enforcement agencies.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “Public safety takes all of us,” the department noted, highlighting the importance of community cooperation during these times.

Santa Monica remains united in its dedication to maintaining a secure environment for all

Hanukkah’s Grand Finale: Menorah Lighting Brightens Santa Monica Pier on New Year’s Day

On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, the Santa Monica Pier came alive with light and celebration as Rabbi Isaac Levitansky of Chabad in Simcha Monica led the menorah lighting ceremony on the eighth and final night of Hanukkah. The event, organized by the Chabad of Santa Monica, marked the culmination of the Festival of Lights, drawing families and community members together for a moment of unity, reflection, and joy.

The evening began with an energetic welcome, including a message of hope and resilience. Attendees heard an inspiring Hanukkah message originally written by the Lubavitcher Rebbe in 1980, emphasizing the festival's themes of triumph, illumination, and the enduring power of light over darkness. Rabbi Levitansky highlighted the spiritual significance of the eighth night, symbolizing the supernatural and encouraging all to persist in spreading goodness and light in the world.

In addition to the menorah lighting, the celebration featured lively music, dancing, doughnuts, chocolate gelt, and the appearance of the beloved Dreidel Mascot. Attendees were reminded to continue the tradition at home by lighting their own menorahs and performing the mitzvah of spreading light in their households and beyond.

The event was not just a celebration of Hanukkah but a call to action, urging everyone to embrace the holiday's lessons of perseverance and faith. Rabbi Levitansky's message underscored the importance of adding positivity to the world, creating a ripple effect of light and peace for all. A special acknowledgment was given to the Santa Monica Police Department at the event.

As the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, the glowing menorah illuminated the pier, serving as a beacon of hope and unity. Attendees shared in the joy of the occasion, marking the end of Hanukkah with blessings, prayers, and heartfelt wishes for a brighter future. The event concluded with an invitation for all to enjoy doughnuts, take photos by the menorah, and continue the celebration at home.

Happy Hanukkah to all!