Santa Monica Police officers arrested a homeless man at Palisades Park on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, during a routine patrol. Officers approached the individual for possession of a shopping cart, classified as misappropriated property under California Penal Code 485 PC if not returned to its rightful owner.
During the encounter, officers discovered the man had an outstanding $100,000 warrant from the Los Angeles Police Department for elder abuse. A subsequent search uncovered a substance suspected to be methamphetamine in his possession.
The man was detained and arrested, with his belongings secured for safekeeping. The arrest highlights the department's ongoing efforts to address both public safety concerns and issues related to homelessness in Santa Monica.
On Saturday, November 23, 2024, private security personnel engaged with a homeless individual, referred to as a "Street Resident" (S.R.), outside the Apple Store on the Third Street Promenade in Downtown Santa Monica. The individual, known to the security team, was approached after standing in front of the storefront. Following a brief conversation, the individual moved on without further incident.
The interaction was handled by Legion Corporation, a private security company contracted by Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. to provide supplemental safety services in the area. Legion's safety team operates daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., responding to non-emergency calls related to:
Anti-social behavior
Aggressive panhandling
Sleeping or lying on streets, sidewalks, or alleys
Disturbing the peace
Suspicious activity
These efforts are part of ongoing initiatives to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for visitors, businesses, and residents in Downtown Santa Monica.
On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, Santa Monica Closeup's photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz spoke with Jennifer Train, a long-time local of Venice Beach who shared her remarkable life story from within her encampment.
Jennifer, originally from Des Moines, Iowa, and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, recounted her childhood with warmth. “I had a great childhood,” she said, adding that she pursued higher education at the University of Arizona. “I’m a Wildcat, class of ’93,” she noted with pride. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Arts, emphasizing scenic design, a field in which she found her creative passion.
Jennifer’s artistic pursuits led her to work as an art director in Los Angeles. “I did an Aimee Mann video,” she recalled, referring to the music video for *Voices Carry*. Reflecting on her time in the industry, she said, “It was a very toxic environment. We weren’t doing brain surgery, but the pressure was immense.” One of her last major projects was for the cult film *Leprechaun 6: In the Hood*, which she worked on as a set dresser in downtown Los Angeles.
Beyond her work in film, Jennifer has lived an extraordinary life filled with creative endeavors. “I’m an artist, a poet, a musician, and a singer,” she shared. In her younger years, Jennifer was also a skilled skateboarder who once went pro, touring with the Phoenix Vans team at just 15. “Tony Hawk and I have a history,” she revealed, reminiscing about her time with the legendary Dogtown skaters.
Despite her many accomplishments, Jennifer’s life has been marked by significant challenges. Now, she is candid about her current circumstances, living at Venice Beach and coping with health issues. “I’m HIV positive,” she said, while emphasizing the care she receives from local clinics. “If I take my medication every day, it keeps the virus non-detectable.”
Jennifer shared a glimmer of hope for the future. “I got a house offered to me last night,” she said, with excitement in her voice. The opportunity to live in a house in Venice Beach with a local family marks a pivotal moment in her journey. “I’ll be packing up and moving in today,” she said, determined to make the most of the opportunity.
Her story is a testament to resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. As she prepares to transition from the Boardwalk to a more stable environment, Jennifer remains optimistic. “I’m getting off the Boardwalk today. I’m ready for what’s next.”
Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, November 8, 2024 — During the weekly Friday cleanup in Venice, Los Angeles Police officers, Park Rangers, and sanitation workers encountered a homeless individual camping under a lifeguard tower at Venice Beach. The Park Rangers informed the man that he had 15 minutes to move his belongings or they would be removed. When the individual did not fully comply, sanitation workers discarded his remaining items, including two bicycles and a mattress.
The operation is part of an ongoing effort to maintain public safety and cleanliness at Venice Beach, extending to the surrounding areas. The coordinated cleanup was led by Los Angeles Park Rangers in partnership with the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The initiative focused on clearing encampments and ensuring sanitary conditions along the beach.
Park Rangers and Los Angeles Police officers were on-site to oversee the process and ensure adherence to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents and camping structures in city parks. No citations were issued, highlighting the city’s compassionate approach to managing public spaces and addressing homelessness.
A representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, known for supporting these cleanup efforts, was present during the operation.
The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), which typically provides vital resources such as food, water, and hygiene kits during these operations, was notably absent.
This weekly cleanup initiative is a critical part of the city’s comprehensive strategy to address homelessness, focusing on supportive rather than punitive measures. By prioritizing public health and safety through regular cleanups, Los Angeles aims to create a safe and welcoming environment for all while approaching homelessness with a balanced and humane perspective.
Venice, Los Angeles – November 7, 2024 — A coordinated cleanup operation was conducted on Mildred Avenue in Venice, spearheaded by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works in collaboration with Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. During the operation, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers encountered a homeless man camping on the sidewalk with two shopping carts full of belongings and a bicycle. The officers informed the man that he could only retain one shopping cart and up to 60 gallons of personal property. The second shopping cart was surrendered and discarded by sanitation workers, who threw it into the garbage truck. The sanitation crew provided the man with a 60-gallon bag to help store his items.This action was in line with Los Angeles Municipal Code Section 56.11, which regulates the storage of personal property in public spaces. The ordinance allows individuals experiencing homelessness to keep belongings in public areas if they fit within a 60-gallon container and do not create obstructions or hazards. Items exceeding this limit, classified as "bulky items"—including furniture and appliances—are not permitted on public property, with exceptions for essential mobility aids like bicycles, walkers, crutches, and wheelchairs.Section 56.11, amended in 2016, was enacted to strike a balance between the public's right to access clean, safe spaces and the needs of those without stable housing to retain essential personal property. While the city may impound unattended or excess property, a 24-hour notice is usually provided. The ordinance limits the seizure of bulky items to cases where they pose a safety or health risk or block public access, following a federal court decision that ruled against blanket size-based seizures as unconstitutional.The operation aimed to clear public areas efficiently, prioritizing public health and sanitation. LAPD officers were present to oversee a smooth and incident-free process. Workers in protective gear carefully sorted hazardous and non-hazardous waste, underscoring the city's commitment to maintaining safe and clean spaces in high-traffic areas.The cleanup adhered to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits camping and unauthorized use of public spaces. This initiative is part of an ongoing weekly effort to address homelessness while promoting public safety and cleanliness. The multi-agency task force, which includes the LAPD and the Department of Public Works, remains dedicated to ensuring accessible and safe public spaces for all residents.
Venice, Los Angeles – November 7, 2024 — A coordinated cleanup operation took place on Main Street in Venice, led by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works in collaboration with Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. During the operation, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers encountered a man sleeping on a discarded sofa in a public parking lot. Officers informed the man that he could not remain in the area and asked him to leave. The man complied, gathering his belongings and departing. Sanitation workers then disposed of the sofa in a garbage truck.The operation aimed to clear public areas efficiently while prioritizing health and sanitation. LAPD officers were on-site to ensure the process proceeded smoothly and without incident. Workers in protective gear carefully sorted hazardous and non-hazardous waste, reflecting the city's commitment to maintaining safe and clean spaces in high-traffic areas.The cleanup adhered to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits camping and unauthorized use of public spaces. This effort is part of an ongoing weekly initiative addressing homelessness and promoting public safety and cleanliness. The multi-agency task force, which includes the LAPD and the Department of Public Works, remains committed to ensuring accessible and safe public areas for all community members.
On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, Los Angeles Police officers encountered a collection of personal belongings believed to belong to a homeless individual beneath Venice Beach's historic pergola. Items, including a shopping cart filled with various personal effects, prompted the officers to request assistance from the city's Parks and Recreation crew to clear the area.
The individual later returned to claim his belongings, and officers informed him of Los Angeles Municipal Code Section 56.11, which regulates storage of personal property in public spaces. Under this ordinance, individuals experiencing homelessness are allowed to keep belongings in public areas if they fit within a 60-gallon container and do not obstruct paths or create hazards. Items exceeding this limit, known as "bulky items"—such as furniture or appliances—are prohibited on public property. Exceptions apply only to essential mobility aids like bicycles, walkers, crutches, or wheelchairs.
Section 56.11, amended in 2016, was enacted to balance public access to clean, safe public spaces with the needs of those without stable housing to maintain access to essential belongings. The ordinance allows the city to impound unattended property, and in cases of excess property, a 24-hour notice is typically provided. The amendment also restricts the seizure of bulky items unless they pose a health or safety risk or obstruct public access, following a federal court ruling that deemed blanket size-based seizure unconstitutional.
The individual at Venice Beach complied, consolidating his belongings within the allowed limit before departing the area.
During a cleanup operation at the Venice Beach Skateboarding Park on Friday, October 25, 2024, Billy, the 14-year-old runaway, was found navigating his precarious situation. Billy shared his recent ordeal, detailing a hostile encounter and discussing his efforts to find stability while avoiding police custody.
Billy recounted a recent threatening incident, explaining, "They tried to run me off a road a couple of nights ago... and I was talking to a police officer over here, he said no, they were just trying to take me into custody." His tone reflected a mix of resignation and frustration with how authorities handled his case.
The young runaway also expressed dissatisfaction with Safe Place for Youth (SPY), a local service program that has repeatedly turned him away due to age restrictions. "It's kind of annoying when they keep on telling me I can come over, and when I show up, they're saying they can't help me," Billy commented, revealing the cyclic disappointments he faces.
Billy's narrative took a personal turn as he spoke about Daisy, the Venice Healer, who he feels has misrepresented him to others. "She's starting to act a fool, bro... she's saying things about me that aren't really true," Billy stated, indicating a growing rift between him and Daisy over her public comments concerning his actions.
Despite the challenges, Billy remains focused on his future, outlining his plans to gain independence and criticizing those who question his maturity due to his age. "I'm getting my stuff done, and I'm starting to get pissed off by the way people are telling me, 'Oh, you're a kid this and this and that.' It doesn't matter. I'm getting my reality check and my stuff straight," he declared firmly.
Billy's day ended on a note of resilience as he prepared for the upcoming community Halloween event at the skate park. His story underscores the complex layers of youth homelessness, police interaction, and community support in Venice Beach.
Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 25, 2024 — During the ongoing weekly cleanup operation at Venice Beach, a homeless woman was found camping inside an abandoned clothing donation bin covered in graffiti near the Venice Art Walls. Los Angeles Park Rangers approached her and requested that she vacate the area so sanitation workers could clean. Although upset and yelling at the crew, she gathered her belongings and left.
Sanitation workers then proceeded to clear the area, removing trash and discarded items left behind. This incident was part of a coordinated effort led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, LAPD officers, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The operation, which focused on clearing homeless encampments, was aimed at maintaining public safety and cleanliness in the area.
The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) was also present to provide essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits, reinforcing the city's commitment to supporting those experiencing homelessness through compassionate measures rather than punitive actions.
Although no citations were issued, the cleanup adhered to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents and unauthorized structures in public spaces like city parks. The multi-agency task force, which included representatives from LAHSA and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, worked efficiently to remove hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
This initiative is part of a broader citywide effort to maintain public spaces while offering support to those in need. These regular cleanups, held every week, are a critical element of Los Angeles’s strategy to balance public health and safety with a compassionate approach to homelessness.
Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 25, 2024 — As part of the ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted at the Venice Beach restrooms and surrounding areas. The effort, led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, LAPD officers, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., focused on removing a homeless encampment to maintain public safety and cleanliness.
Police officers and Park Rangers were on-site to ensure the cleanup ran smoothly. Although no citations were issued to individuals camping on the beach, the operation adhered to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in public spaces such as city parks.
The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) was also present, providing essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits to individuals experiencing homelessness. This further emphasized the city's commitment to a supportive approach, prioritizing assistance over punitive measures.
After clearing the restrooms, the cleanup team moved on to other encampments along the beach. The multi-agency task force, which included representatives from LAHSA and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, worked to address public health concerns by carefully sorting and removing both hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
This initiative is part of a broader city effort to balance public space maintenance with a compassionate response to homelessness. The absence of citations during the operation reflects the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions.
These weekly cleanups are a key component of Los Angeles’s strategy to address homelessness while ensuring safety and sanitation in public areas, with a focus on supportive solutions over enforcement.
Los Angeles, CA – October 24, 2024 – A significant cleanup operation was underway at Venice Beach on Thursday, overseen by Los Angeles Police officers. In collaboration with LA County Beaches and Harbors, crews worked to address the accumulation of debris and restore the beach to its pristine condition.
Police presence served as a deterrent to any potential disruptions, ensuring a safe and efficient environment for the cleanup crews to work. The operation focused on removing trash, debris, and other unsightly materials from the beach and surrounding areas.
This concerted effort is part of an ongoing commitment to maintain the cleanliness and attractiveness of Venice Beach, a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Venice, Los Angeles – October 24, 2024 — A coordinated cleanup operation took place on Pacific Avenue in Venice, focusing on the removal of a homeless encampment from sidewalks in front of businesses. The City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, alongside Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., led the cleanup effort, ensuring the area was cleared in a safe and efficient manner.
Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers were present on-site to ensure the operation proceeded smoothly. Although no citations were issued to individuals camping on the sidewalk, the action was conducted in line with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in public spaces such as city parks.
Workers in protective gear carefully separated hazardous from non-hazardous waste, underscoring the city's focus on public health and sanitation in high-traffic areas. This operation is part of a larger weekly initiative aimed at addressing homelessness, while improving public safety and cleanliness.
The city remains committed to compassionate responses to homelessness, balancing the need for clean public spaces with support for vulnerable populations. The multi-agency task force, which includes the LAPD and Department of Public Works, continues to address these challenges with a focus on maintaining safe and accessible public spaces for all.
In the early hours of Wednesday, October 23, 2024, a homeless man identified as Gaeo was spotted maneuvering a makeshift cart along the Santa Monica Bike Path at around 6:45 a.m. The cart, ingeniously constructed from two city trash bins turned on their sides, was piled high with his belongings. Gaeo uses a repurposed contraption made from discarded car radiators to rake through the sand, collecting debris such as syringes and other trash. He mentioned to a Santa Monica Beach Maintenance worker that he planned to head to the Venice Skate Park to clean the surrounding area and assured them that he would return the city trash cans when finished.
In a distressing event reported at Venice Beach, Daisy, known as the Venice Healer, and a 14-year-old runaway named Billy were violently attacked in their tent at around 3:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. Daisy recounted the ordeal, stating that two men and two women stormed their shelter, aggressively searching for a phone they accused Billy of stealing.
"They came threateningly and shook the tent, threw water everywhere, and soaked Billy's blankets," Daisy explained. The assailants did not spare her either; they physically assaulted her by pulling at her and kicking her as she lay. "I was asleep, under my ribbons, when they started kicking and hitting me," she said, describing the shock of being woken violently.
Daisy also highlighted the ferocity of the attack and its impact on Billy, emphasizing his vulnerability as a child. "Billy got the brunt of it. These are grown adults, and he is just a kid," she expressed, deeply concerned for his safety. Despite the chaos, she managed to keep her composure, driven by her commitment to helping those in need at the beach.
According to Daisy, the attackers rummaged through their belongings but left without finding the phone. In the aftermath, Billy, traumatized by the experience, fled the scene. "Billy ran away, really traumatized. There was no phone here," Daisy added, underlining the senselessness of the violence.
The police were notified the following morning, as Daisy decided to report the incident despite her reservations about the timely response of law enforcement. "I don't snitch, but I'm going to tell the police what happened because Billy is in danger now," she declared, indicating the severity of the attack.
This violent incident underscores the ongoing dangers faced by homeless individuals and particularly vulnerable youth like Billy at Venice Beach. The community and local authorities are now more alert to the safety needs of those like Daisy and Billy, who seek refuge in the relative sanctuary of the beach.
Venice, Los Angeles – Tuesday, October 18, 2024 — A coordinated, multi-agency task force conducted a routine overnight cleanup operation at Venice Beach as part of the city's ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and cleanliness. The task force included the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Police Department, and St. Joseph's Center Homeless Outreach Team.
The operation began at 2 a.m. at Windward Plaza, with crews heading north to the Rose Street Parking Lot, where they cleaned around the lot and in the restrooms. The team then moved south along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, stopping at restroom facilities along the way. Inside the restrooms, workers asked individuals experiencing homelessness to exit so the areas could be cleaned. The team also removed unattended items, including tents, as part of the cleanup.
One notable find was an abandoned grand piano missing its legs, believed to belong to "Nathan the Piano Man," a well-known Venice Beach figure. It required the entire crew to lift the piano onto a truck for disposal.
The cleanup continued with the removal of homeless encampments around the Venice Beach handball courts before the team headed south to the Venice Beach Fishing Pier, where they cleared the pier area. The operation concluded at 5 a.m.
Throughout the operation, St. Joseph’s Center Homeless Outreach Team provided food, water, and clothing to those experiencing homelessness.
Los Angeles Police officers were present to ensure compliance with Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in city parks. No citations were issued during the cleanup, reflecting the city's focus on compassionate, non-punitive measures to address homelessness.
Workers in protective gear carefully sorted hazardous and non-hazardous waste, emphasizing the city’s commitment to public health and sanitation. These bi-weekly, overnight cleanups are part of Los Angeles’s broader strategy to address homelessness while maintaining safe and accessible public spaces.
The absence of citations highlights the city's preference for supportive solutions over enforcement.
Venice Beach, October 20, 2024 – Seren Hkse, a local street artist, was seen working on a new painting at the Venice Beach Boardwalk on Sunday. Known for using acrylic pens, Seren has been creating and selling her artwork on the boardwalk for years, despite living in a homeless shelter. She described her art as a reflection of Venice’s unique culture and shared her hope for a future where artists like herself can thrive.
In a candid conversation with Santa Monica Closeup’s photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz, Seren opened up about her struggles. “Today's my last day here,” she said, referencing an ongoing personal challenge involving harassment and theft of her art supplies. Despite the setbacks, she remains resilient, continuing to create and envision a future with a dedicated workspace for her projects.
Seren spoke passionately about the importance of art and community. "This is home, and I want to be home," she shared, explaining her connection to the Venice area and her dreams of opening a gallery space. Even in the face of adversity, Seren's art and spirit continue to inspire those who encounter her work at the boardwalk.
Her story is a testament to the creativity and resilience that defines Venice Beach, a place where art and struggle often walk hand in hand.
Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 18, 2024 — As part of the ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted at Venice Beach by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The effort focused on removing a homeless encampment to maintain public safety and cleanliness in the area.
Los Angeles Police officers and Park Rangers were on-site to oversee the process, ensuring compliance with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in city parks to keep public spaces safe and accessible. Sanitation workers gave individuals camping along the beach 15 minutes to pack their belongings before the cleanup began. Items left behind were either disposed of or placed in storage for later retrieval.
After clearing the encampment, the cleanup team moved on to other encampments, continuing their efforts along the beach. The multi-agency task force included the LAPD, Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office.
Workers in protective gear carefully sorted and removed hazardous and non-hazardous waste, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to improving public health and sanitation. LAPD officers ensured the cleanup complied with local regulations, but no citations were issued during the operation, reflecting the city's compassionate approach to addressing homelessness.
This initiative is part of a broader city effort to balance public space maintenance with a compassionate response to homelessness. The absence of citations during the cleanup underscores the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions.
These weekly cleanups are a critical component of Los Angeles’s strategy to address homelessness while maintaining safety and cleanliness in public areas. No citations were issued during this operation, highlighting the city’s commitment to supportive solutions over enforcement.
Santa Monica Police Department’s Major Accident Response Team (MART) responded to a tragic incident on Santa Monica Beach early Friday morning, October 18, 2024. Authorities were called to the 1400 block of the beach following a report of a vehicle trapped in the sand. Upon arrival, harbor officers discovered an unconscious female victim, believed to be homeless, wedged beneath the vehicle. Despite efforts by the Santa Monica Fire Department to provide aid, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency crews used specialized equipment to lift the vehicle and retrieve her body.
The incident occurred late Thursday night, October 17, around 11:30 PM. The driver, identified as 21-year-old Yuyang Sun from Arcadia, CA, reportedly remained on the scene and was arrested after a DUI investigation. Witnesses stated that Sun had been driving his 2015 Infiniti SUV at high speeds, performing circles on the sand before striking the victim. He now faces charges including driving under the influence (23152(a) VC), reckless driving (23105 VC), and gross vehicular manslaughter (191.5(a) PC).
MART officers are continuing their investigation, and the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office has been notified. As of now, the identity of the female victim has not been released. Authorities are encouraging anyone with further information to contact the Santa Monica Police Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.
Our thoughts are with the victim and her loved ones during this difficult time.
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.
On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, Los Angeles Police Officers detained a 14-year-old runaway on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, who had been listed on the Missing Persons List. The incident followed an initial encounter the day before, when officers had spotted the youth during a routine patrol on the boardwalk. After speaking with the teenager, LAPD officers gathered his information and began investigating his circumstances. Upon returning to the station, they discovered that the teen was officially reported as missing.
Determined to resolve the situation, LAPD officers returned to Venice Beach the following day to search for the runaway. They encountered Daisy, known as the Venice Healer, and John Allgood, both of whom had been involved in the youth's care. The officers informed them that the teenager would need to be taken into custody and processed through youth services in order to return him to the foster system.
Daisy and John Allgood expressed concern for the youth and offered to speak with him to help facilitate the recovery process. They found the teenager and explained the situation, but the young runaway was resistant and did not want to surrender to the authorities.
Later that day, officers spotted the teenager again, this time at the Venice Beach Skate Park. LAPD set up a perimeter around the area and were able to safely detain the runaway. The teenager was taken back to the police station for further processing and will be placed in the appropriate youth services to continue his care and ensure his return to the foster system.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by both law enforcement and community members in supporting vulnerable youth in the foster system. Daisy and John Allgood remain committed to assisting the teen, while LAPD works to ensure his safety and proper placement in the system.
