SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Tuesday, August 5, 2025 — Santa Monica’s annual National Night Out brought hundreds of residents to City Hall for an evening of community connection, public safety education, and family-friendly activities.
One of the evening’s highlights was a live drone demonstration by the Santa Monica Police Department, drawing a large crowd as officers showcased the department’s aerial surveillance technology. The demonstration was part of ongoing efforts to promote transparency and modernize public safety tools.
In attendance were Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete, Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista, and Santa Monica Fire Chief Matthew Hallock, all engaging with the community throughout the event.
Families explored public safety vehicles, played games, and spoke with first responders while children received free helmets and fire hats. The event also featured music, food, and outreach booths under the theme “Santa Monica All Stars.”
Hosted annually, National Night Out is a nationwide initiative designed to strengthen police-community partnerships and encourage neighborhood camaraderie.
SANTA MONICA, CA — On Saturday, July 26, 2025, a Santa Monica Police Department special task force impounded 12 Sur-Ron-type electric motorcycles from a public charging station at the Santa Monica Beach parking lot on Barnard Way. Officers from both motor and bicycle units responded to the scene, where a group of riders had parked and charged their high-powered e-bikes. No citations were issued, but two flatbed tow trucks arrived to transport the impounded vehicles—each carrying six of the electric bikes.
According to authorities, the operation followed a wave of public complaints and reports of serious accidents involving high-speed e-bikes in the beach area. Sur-Ron-style electric motorcycles, while sometimes mistaken for standard e-bikes, do not meet California’s legal definition of a street-legal electric bicycle. These off-road vehicles often exceed power outputs of 3,000 watts and can reach speeds above 40 miles per hour. In most cases, they also lack operable pedals, disqualifying them from being registered as Class 1, 2, or 3 e-bikes under state law.
In California, legal electric bicycles must be equipped with functioning pedals and powered by an electric motor of no more than 750 watts. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are limited to speeds of 20 miles per hour, with Class 2 models allowing throttle-assisted propulsion. Class 3 e-bikes permit pedal-assisted speeds up to 28 miles per hour and require helmets for riders under 18, along with other safety provisions. Sur-Ron models, by contrast, are designed exclusively for off-highway use and fall under the category of electric dirt bikes. They are neither eligible for registration as street vehicles nor protected by bicycle exemptions, making their operation on public roads, bike paths, or sidewalks illegal.
The seized vehicles can be recovered by their owners upon proof of ownership and payment of towing and storage fees. Police say enforcement efforts will continue as part of a broader push to address unsafe and unregulated e-bike use on the beach and in other public areas.
SANTA MONICA, CA — Thursday, July 17, 2025 — Community members gathered at Christine Emerson Reed Park and the newly reopened Miles Memorial Playhouse for this year’s State of the City event, marking both a civic milestone and the kickoff of Santa Monica’s 150th anniversary celebration.
Billed as “A Celebration of Resilience and Growth,” the evening featured a fresh format with an opening reception hosted by Mayor Lana Negrete and incoming City Manager Oliver Chi. Held inside the historic Playhouse from 4 to 5 p.m., the reception included refreshments, informational displays, and opportunities for attendees to speak directly with city leadership.
Outside in the park, DJ Bukue One provided the musical backdrop as city departments and community partners offered interactive booths, trivia games, and giveaways. The family-friendly event invited residents to bring blankets and picnic gear while enjoying art, food, and live performances.
Following welcome remarks by Mayor Negrete and a poem by Santa Monica Poet Laureate Annelyse Carmack, the evening program included performances by youth talent from Downbeat 720, the multimedia ensemble String Theory, and artists from Los Angeles Performance Practice’s “Bridge the Gaps” residency initiative.
Docents from the Santa Monica Conservancy led 15-minute guided tours of the Miles Memorial Playhouse throughout the evening, highlighting the venue’s architectural and cultural significance.
Food vendors such as Border Grill and Hot Dog on a Stick provided local fare, while a beer garden hosted by Santa Monica Brew Works served guests in the park.
The event also served as the official start to Santa Monica’s 150th anniversary campaign, a months-long celebration set to continue through December 2025 with additional community events and tributes to the city’s history.
To reduce traffic and promote accessibility, the City offered complimentary Big Blue Bus rides for those attending the event. Bicycle valet services were provided along California Avenue by Santa Monica Spoke, and drop-off zones were designated for rideshare users on Lincoln Boulevard.
SANTA MONICA, CA — In a move to address record-high staffing vacancies and intensifying competition for top-tier law enforcement candidates, the Santa Monica Police Department has launched a new digital recruitment hub: JoinSMPD.com.
The website, officially launched on June 23, 2025, serves as a central platform for applicants seeking careers as sworn officers or civilian personnel. Designed with a modern and user-centric interface, the site aims to streamline the hiring process and connect with a new generation of public safety professionals.
“Recruitment is one of our greatest challenges,” said Police Chief Ramon Batista during a June 10 City Council meeting. “We must meet today’s talent where they are—online, informed, and engagement-driven.”
Key features of the new site include:
An integrated application system with guidance on written exams, physical fitness qualifications, oral interviews, background checks, and post-offer testing.
Day-in-the-life video content and officer testimonials highlighting service within the Santa Monica community.
Timeline breakdowns and preparation tips covering the full recruitment and onboarding process.
Separate sections tailored for sworn and civilian roles, reinforcing the department’s commitment to workforce diversity.
According to SMPD, Santa Monica offers competitive compensation, robust training opportunities, and a city-backed wellness program. Chief Batista added, “We’re not just filling vacancies—we’re investing in a future where our department reflects the strength, resilience, and excellence of our city.”
Prospective candidates are encouraged to visit the site and explore current openings.
Santa Monica, CA — June 26, 2025 — A man suspected in a recent downtown shooting that injured two juveniles is now in custody after allegedly ambushing and shooting a Santa Monica Police Department officer during a foot pursuit.
The suspect, identified as David John Hairston II, 31, believed to be homeless, was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon following a coordinated law enforcement response. He is being held at the Santa Monica Jail on $1 million bail and is scheduled to appear in court on June 27.
The original shooting occurred late Sunday night, June 22, around 11:38 p.m. near 2nd Street and Broadway, where two juveniles seated inside an autonomous rideshare vehicle were shot by a suspect on foot following a verbal altercation. Both victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at a local hospital.
Detectives launched an immediate investigation, distributing a departmental bulletin the next day in an effort to locate the suspect.
On June 25 at approximately 1:00 p.m., an SMPD officer spotted an individual matching the description near 2nd Street and Colorado Avenue. As the officer attempted contact, the suspect fled on foot. During the brief pursuit, the suspect allegedly ambushed the officer, opening fire and striking him multiple times. The officer sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Roughly three hours later, at 4:20 p.m., a community member reported seeing someone matching the suspect’s description near Palisades Park. Officers quickly responded and apprehended Hairston following another short chase. A firearm believed to be used in the shooting was recovered at the scene.
The case will be submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Anticipated charges include:
Attempted murder of a peace officer
Assault with a deadly weapon
Two counts of attempted murder (related to the June 22 incident)
Firearms violations
The Santa Monica Police Department expressed gratitude to vigilant residents and the multiple law enforcement agencies that supported the operation, including LAPD, CHP, LA County Sheriff’s Department, Beverly Hills PD, El Segundo PD, and others.
Authorities are asking anyone with further information to contact Det. Reyes, Det. Kayondo, or Sgt. Lozano at (310) 458-8774, or the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.
WEST LOS ANGELES — On Thursday, June 19, 2025, Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to a traffic collision in the 11000 block of La Grange Avenue after reports of a vehicle traveling at high speed through a residential neighborhood.
According to eyewitnesses, the driver was swerving and narrowly avoided multiple vehicles before crashing into a parked car. Despite the impact, the suspect reportedly continued driving for several blocks before stopping and exiting the vehicle. Witnesses described the driver as carrying a beer in his back pocket as he walked away from the scene.
Both the suspect’s vehicle and the parked car sustained significant damage and are believed to be total losses.
Responding LAPD officers detained the driver and conducted a series of field sobriety tests, including a breathalyzer. The driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). His vehicle was subsequently impounded and towed.
No injuries or additional incidents were reported. The investigation remains ongoing.
𝗣𝗘𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗔𝗪𝗧𝗬:Santa Monica Animal Shelter Hosts Fourth Annual Open House Fundraiser with Raffle, Silent Auction, and Adoptions
SANTA MONICA, CA — Saturday, June 7, 2025 — The Santa Monica Animal Shelter welcomed the public for its fourth annual Open House Fundraiser on Saturday, turning a sunny afternoon into a celebration of community, compassion, and animal care. From 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., guests toured the shelter, met adoptable pets, and enjoyed an array of family-friendly activities—while raising critical funds for the animals in the city’s care.
Former Santa Monica Mayor Gleam Davis helped kick off the adoption festivities by sponsoring the first adopted dog and cat. With many animals available at reduced fees, several found new homes by the day’s end.
The event featured an impressive slate of raffle prizes available in exchange for donation tickets. Prizes included:
Four Knott’s Berry Farm tickets (valued at $399.96)
Two LA Opera orchestra-level tickets for Rigoletto (6/21/25)
Two unlimited ride passes to Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
A $300 gift certificate to BOA or Sushi Roku
Dance lessons, grooming packages, fitness memberships, and more
Gift baskets from businesses including Starbucks, Bodega Wine Bar, and the Santa Monica Police Chief’s office
A luxury Tavo Maeve Pet Car Seat (valued at over $600)
Raffle winners not present at the drawing will be contacted, with items to be claimed by June 28, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
The silent auction offered equally exclusive experiences. Highlights included:
A ride-along on the Santa Monica Harbor Patrol boat for up to 10 guests
A half-day hands-on forensics lab experience with SMPD’s forensic science team
Children and families enjoyed face painting from The Magical Atelier, balloon animals by Wild About Balloons LA, music from a live DJ, and photo ops with the Santa Monica Police Department’s Mounted Unit. Attendees were also treated to food and drink from local supporters, including burgers by Troop 2 Santa Monica and refreshments donated by the Starbucks at 2200 Colorado Avenue.
All auction and raffle items were generously donated, with proceeds directly benefiting the shelter’s ongoing work. Organizers expressed deep gratitude to community sponsors and participants for making the event a success and reinforcing the city’s commitment to animal welfare.
SANTA MONICA, CA — Friday, June 6, 2025 — The Santa Monica Police Department’s Mounted Unit made a visible impact along Ocean Front Walk this week, as officers on horseback patrolled the bustling coastal promenade. The presence of mounted officers not only bolstered public safety but also invited frequent engagement with community members and tourists.
The patrol drew attention from passersby, many of whom paused to greet the officers, pet the horses, and snap photos. This familiar sight has become a staple of beachfront policing in Santa Monica, where mounted units offer a combination of mobility, approachability, and high visibility.
The Mounted Unit is especially effective in managing crowd-heavy environments such as the beach and Palisades Park. From deterring unlawful behavior to responding quickly in emergencies, the mounted patrol offers an elevated vantage point and a calming presence amid the weekend foot traffic.
More than just law enforcement, the unit serves as a community bridge—offering positive interactions between police officers and the public. The strong bond between officer and horse is apparent, and their coordinated presence continues to reassure both residents and visitors.
By maintaining a regular patrol schedule in high-traffic areas, the Santa Monica Police Department reaffirms its commitment to safety, accessibility, and public trust. The mounted officers are not just guardians of the path—they are a celebrated part of Santa Monica’s coastal character.
Santa Monica, CA — Wednesday, May 28, 2025 — Santa Monica Harbor Patrol officers conducted a comprehensive rescue training exercise off the Santa Monica Pier this week, demonstrating key emergency response techniques designed to protect the public along the city’s coastal waters.
Wearing wetsuits and equipped with safety gear, officers leapt from the edge of the pier into the Pacific Ocean to simulate an overboard rescue. Using a life-sized mannequin as a stand-in victim, the team secured the figure into a rescue basket, which was then hoisted from the water using a cable system. The drill also included paddleboard maneuvers, practicing swift-response techniques under simulated emergency conditions.
The training is part of the Harbor Patrol’s ongoing commitment to public safety along Santa Monica’s busy coastline. Officers are responsible for patrolling the pier, beach, and surrounding waters by foot, vehicle, or rescue boat. Their duties include responding to ocean rescues, medical emergencies, boat and pier fires, and other critical incidents.
Harbor Patrol personnel are cross-trained in SCUBA rescue, search and recovery, fire suppression, and marine operations. They maintain two rescue vessels and operate specialized equipment, including hoists, fire pumps, and salvage gear. Their role also extends to the enforcement of local ordinances, issuing citations for municipal code violations on the pier and beach.
In addition to emergency response, officers inspect and maintain navigational buoys, respond to public complaints, issue safety advisories via the pier’s weather station, and assist with maintenance of pier infrastructure.
The drill underscores the multi-disciplinary nature of the Harbor Patrol’s work and their readiness to act under high-risk conditions—including the ability to perform rescues in turbulent surf and leap 25 feet from the pier to access victims in the water.
As summer crowds return to Santa Monica’s beaches, the Harbor Patrol’s visibility and preparedness play a critical role in ensuring safety for visitors and residents alike.
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For continued updates on public safety and coastal operations, follow Santa Monica Closeup.
SANTA MONICA, CA — Tuesday, May 20, 2025 — Shortly after participating in the city’s “Coffee with a Cop” community outreach event, Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista led a walking tour through the Third Street Promenade with fellow officers and local photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz of Santa Monica Closeup. The informal inspection came amid ongoing public debate over the city’s newly approved “Entertainment Zone” open-container policy set to begin in June.
While walking the Promenade, Chief Batista spoke candidly about concerns tied to the upcoming open-air alcohol program and the department’s readiness to manage its implementation. He emphasized that the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) is working closely with city staff and the City Attorney’s Office to ensure all rules and safeguards are enforced effectively. Increased patrol presence, especially during key hours Friday through Sunday, will be part of the response plan.
The chief noted that while the official entertainment zone will operate from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., SMPD’s targeted enforcement focus will be during business hours when outdoor consumption is expected to peak — roughly from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Additional measures include the installation of new surveillance infrastructure and the launch of a real-time crime and information center, anticipated to be operational by late summer or early fall. The department views these upgrades as essential to improving response capabilities in downtown Santa Monica.
Chief Batista also addressed broader public safety and staffing issues. He confirmed that five additional officers are being onboarded, two of whom will be assigned specifically to traffic enforcement. These roles are part of a strategic initiative to curb traffic-related incidents and maintain high-visibility policing.
Staffing levels, Batista reported, are at an all-time high, with 232 sworn officers currently serving — and room to grow. Recruitment is strong, and SMPD recently pinned four new officers, with 11 more currently in the academy pipeline. The department is also rolling out a new recruitment website and developing a podcast, Studio 66, as part of its strategic communications plan.
Underlying all efforts, Batista said, is the department’s long-term roadmap leading up to the 2028 Olympics. The SMPD’s strategic plan focuses on four pillars: crime and public safety, officer wellness and resilience, advanced technology integration, and strengthened community relationships.
While some residents and business owners have expressed concern that the new open-container ordinance could exacerbate issues such as crime and homelessness, the department appears committed to a proactive and responsive enforcement strategy aimed at preserving safety and restoring public confidence in the Promenade.
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
Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has announced the arrest of Rod Sharif, a 30-year-old Los Angeles resident, in connection with a fatal hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of a Vietnam War veteran on December 22, 2024. The incident occurred at the intersection of Wilshire Blvd. and Chelsea Ave., where the victim was fatally struck by a white Toyota Rav4 while crossing southbound on Wilshire.
Eyewitnesses reported the suspect vehicle fleeing eastbound at a high speed immediately after the incident. The victim, a long-standing resident of Santa Monica, was pronounced deceased at the scene. In a determined effort to solve the case, SMPD’s Major Accident Response Team and Traffic Investigations Unit were quick to gather video evidence leading to the identification of Sharif.
On December 27, 2024, SMPD’s Traffic Unit, supported by SWAT and detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division, executed search and arrest warrants at Sharif's residence in Santa Monica Canyon. Officers recovered several pieces of crucial evidence, including the damaged vehicle involved in the collision. Sharif faces charges of murder and felony hit-and-run, along with previous charges of reckless and impaired driving.
SMPD encourages anyone with additional information about the incident to contact their team. This tragic event has deeply impacted the community, reminding residents of the critical need for road safety awareness
Santa Monica Police arrested a man near Ocean Avenue by the Santa Monica Pier at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Monday, December 23, 2024, following a reported robbery.
According to the victim, the suspect approached him in an aggressive manner while wielding a knife and yelling. Fearing for his safety, the victim dropped his luggage bag, which the suspect then took before walking away. The victim called out for someone to contact the police.
Officers arrived shortly after the incident, located the suspect, and recovered the stolen belongings. The victim’s property was returned, and the suspect was taken into custody.
The suspect has been charged with robbery under California Penal Code § 211, which defines the crime as the felonious taking of another person's property against their will through force or fear.
The investigation is ongoing.
Santa Monica Animal Control Officers responded to a report on Saturday, December 21, 2024, regarding an individual allegedly selling puppies at the Santa Monica Pier. The act was in potential violation of California Code, PEN 597.4, which prohibits the sale or giveaway of live animals on public streets, highways, and boardwalks.
Officers made contact with the individual, explained the applicable law, and clarified the legal restrictions against such transactions. The individual cooperated with officers, avoiding a citation by adhering to the guidance provided.
Under California Code, PEN 597.4, selling or giving away live animals in public spaces as part of a commercial transaction is unlawful, except under specific exemptions. A first violation typically results in an infraction with a fine of up to $250. If an animal is harmed or placed in danger, however, the offense escalates to a misdemeanor, carrying heavier penalties.
The Santa Monica Police Department emphasized its commitment to enforcing state animal welfare laws and ensuring the health and safety of animals within the community.
Traffic Officer Training Underway at Santa Monica Beach
On Friday, December 20, 2024, a new Santa Monica Police Department Traffic Officer underwent rigorous training at Santa Monica Beach. The training session involved navigating a cone course and performing various maneuvers, including reversing and precise vehicle control, as part of the preparation for the demanding responsibilities of the role.
Traffic Services Officers play a crucial role in maintaining public safety and ensuring smooth traffic flow within Santa Monica. Their duties include enforcing parking control laws, issuing citations, and responding to traffic-related incidents. The position offers competitive compensation, with salaries ranging from $59,688 to $73,692 annually, along with comprehensive benefits.
Dynamic Role in Public Safety
The job of a Traffic Services Officer is multifaceted, requiring officers to patrol on foot, bicycle, or in specialized three-wheeled vehicles. They enforce parking regulations, direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and assist law enforcement personnel by reporting illegal activities. Officers also respond to public inquiries, provide assistance during emergencies, and testify in court when necessary.
Skills and Training
Candidates for this role must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, along with one year of recent, paid, public-facing work experience. Essential skills include effective communication, the ability to follow detailed instructions, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure. Officers are trained to use police radios, operate city vehicles safely, and apply relevant laws and regulations with professionalism.
A Rewarding Career Path
For those who thrive in a fast-paced environment and are committed to public service, joining Santa Monica Police Department’s Traffic Services team offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the community. The role is ideal for individuals who enjoy engaging with the public, solving problems, and upholding safety standards.
Aspiring candidates are encouraged to apply and become part of this dedicated team working to keep Santa Monica safe and organized for all residents and visitors.
On Friday, December 20, 2024, Los Angeles Park Rangers conducted an enforcement operation at Westminster Dog Park in Venice. A homeless man was detained and his vehicle was towed for violating Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) Section 86.03, which limits parking in public park lots to two hours.
The vehicle in question had been parked in the lot for an extended period and was found with three flat tires. Rangers allowed the man 15 minutes to remove his personal belongings before towing the car.
In addition to the tow, Park Rangers issued multiple citations to other vehicles that had exceeded the two-hour parking limit. Many of these vehicles also had expired registration tags.
Under LAMC 86.03, parking restrictions are implemented to ensure public safety and the reasonable enjoyment of parks by all visitors. Signs in park lots clearly indicate the two-hour limit, and violations are subject to enforcement.
This crackdown highlights ongoing efforts by park officials to maintain accessibility and proper use of public spaces in Los Angeles.
During a routine homeless encampment cleanup on Thursday, December 19, 2024, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers discovered an electric cable extending from a parked RV on Fourth Street in Venice, unlawfully tapping into city electrical infrastructure on the sidewalk.
Following their investigation, officers arrested the individual residing in the RV for violating California Penal Code (PC) 498(b), which prohibits the theft of utility services. The person was cited and released on-site, meaning they were not transported to jail but instead issued a citation with a promise to appear in court at a later date.
Under California's “cite and release” procedure, law enforcement provides a citation for suspected unlawful conduct without formally booking the accused into custody. The process allows the individual to remain free, provided they sign an agreement to attend a future court hearing.
Understanding Penal Code 498(b)
California PC 498(b) criminalizes the theft of utility services, including electricity, gas, and water. This includes:
Diverting utility services without payment
Tampering with utility meters or property
Making unauthorized utility connections
Using utility services without consent
Depending on the value of the stolen services and the offender’s criminal history, this violation may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. Consequences can include fines, custody time, and collateral effects such as immigration consequences or the suspension of professional licenses.
The Venice cleanup and subsequent arrest underscore the ongoing challenges posed by utility theft in areas impacted by homelessness.
On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Santa Monica police arrested a man for allegedly using a recording device to film a woman in a gender-neutral public restroom. Officers responded to a disturbance call and discovered that the individual had been involved in an altercation. Upon investigation, authorities determined the man had violated California Penal Code Section 647(j), which prohibits the unlawful invasion of privacy.
Under PC 647(j), it is illegal to use a device to record or view someone in a private setting without their consent. A conviction for this misdemeanor carries penalties of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
According to the police sergeant, the suspect, who was apprehended at the scene, also had an outstanding $50,000 warrant for a similar offense in another jurisdiction. The incident occurred when the suspect allegedly used a stall to record another person, who noticed the intrusion and reported it to authorities. Officers were able to locate and arrest the suspect before he fled the area.
This case highlights California’s strict enforcement of privacy laws aimed at protecting individuals from "peeping tom" crimes.
On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, Santa Monica police detained two out-of-state individuals following a theft report at a restaurant on Ocean Avenue. According to authorities, the two allegedly stole a bottle of vodka from the establishment.
Officers located the individuals nearby and recovered the stolen bottle. The restaurant declined to press charges, but during the investigation, officers discovered that one of the individuals had a no-bail warrant out of Texas.
The woman with the warrant was arrested and taken into custody, while the other individual was released. Police noted that the incident began with a call for service and escalated when the warrant was uncovered.
This case highlights the diligence of local officers in addressing theft-related incidents and enforcing outstanding warrants. No further details were provided about the individuals involved.
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.
