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.
Santa Monica's streets came alive with holiday spirit on Saturday, December 7, 2024, as the city marked its 32nd annual Candy Cane Drive, a cherished tradition organized by the Santa Monica Firefighters' & Police Officers' Association. The event featured a special early visit from Santa Claus, who toured the city in festive style, escorted by local firefighters and police officers.
In a vibrant display of community spirit, Santa, accompanied by the lights and sirens of a firetruck, stopped at several key locations, including Douglas Park, Reed Park, Virginia Avenue Park, and Clover Park. Families from across Santa Monica gathered at each stop, eager to greet Santa and receive candy canes. The event served as a joyful reminder of the vital contributions of first responders to the community.
Children and families lined the streets, their excitement palpable as Santa and his escorts made their way through the city. For over three decades, the Candy Cane Drive has been a cornerstone of Santa Monica's holiday traditions, fostering a sense of unity and celebration among residents. It reflects the season's values of generosity and togetherness, bringing the community closer each year.
The enduring commitment of the Santa Monica Firefighters' & Police Officers' Association to this beloved event underscores their dedication to community engagement and support. The Candy Cane Drive is not only a festive celebration but also a testament to the role of first responders in creating a safe and joyous environment for families during the holidays.
Santa Monica Police traffic officers were seen inventorying RVs and buses parked overnight at Lot 4 and 5 near Santa Monica Beach on Tuesday, November 11, 2024, in preparation for issuing citations. Parking regulations at the lot prohibit vehicles from staying between sundown and sunrise, yet enforcement has become a growing challenge as the lot has turned into a hub for RV and bus owners, including participants in an ongoing protest.
The protest, organized by Emory Rodgers, founder of the Homeless Advocacy for a Constitutional Convention (HACC), began on October 29, 2024. Rodgers, who previously ran for U.S. Senate in California, has received multiple citations for his bus, which he parks overnight in the lot despite city regulations. Rodgers frames the protest as a constitutional exercise of First Amendment rights and a stand against systemic inequities that he says marginalize unhoused individuals and perpetuate societal injustice.
In addition to protest-related activity, other RV and bus owners using the lot have explained their reasons for parking overnight. Santa Monica Closeup photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz spoke with a couple residing in a bus who shared their perspective. They said they prefer to pay the $63 parking fine rather than move to an RV campsite, citing the lot’s affordability and safety compared to other options.
Many of the RV and bus owners are remote workers traveling across the country and using the lot as a temporary base. While most drivers reportedly pay their fines promptly, city officials have indicated they may escalate enforcement efforts, including towing vehicles for repeat violations or unpaid citations.
Residents have expressed frustration over the use of the lot for overnight parking, particularly as it has become a focal point for the HACC protest. Some community members have taken to social media to urge stricter enforcement, while others criticize the lack of immediate action.
Rodgers, who has parked his bus overnight as part of the protest, remains undeterred. "We are not enemies of the police or anyone else—we’re simply trying to create a more just and cooperative society," he said, emphasizing that the protest highlights deeper systemic issues beyond the parking violations themselves.
The Santa Monica Police Department has yet to release a statement regarding its enforcement plans for public parking at the beach lots As tensions persist, the city faces increasing pressure to address the situation while balancing the concerns of residents, activists, and transient RV and bus owners.
Santa Monica Police Release Video Detailing Violent Attack on Officer
The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has released a Critical Incident Video documenting the October 5, 2024, attack on an officer and subsequent officer-involved shooting. The video provides a comprehensive overview of the events that unfolded in front of the department's headquarters, showcasing the dangerous split-second decisions officers face.
Key Events Leading to the Attack
The incident began at approximately 5:07 PM when the suspect, later identified as Deyaa Abdelhadi Halaibeh, entered a Target store on Broadway and stole a set of kitchen knives after assaulting an employee. Surveillance footage shows the suspect fleeing the scene with one knife concealed under his jacket.
Minutes later, Halaibeh arrived at the Santa Monica Police Station, where he summoned an officer by ringing the call button. Body-worn camera footage captured the officer’s attempt to de-escalate the situation before being violently attacked with the stolen 8-inch knife. Despite the officer’s efforts to evade, he was stabbed multiple times in the neck and shoulder before using his firearm to neutralize the threat.
Aftermath and Investigation
Responding officers and Santa Monica Harbor Guards provided immediate medical aid, but the suspect succumbed to his injuries. The wounded officer was rushed to a trauma center for treatment of severe injuries, and forensic evidence later revealed the extent of the attack, including damage to the officer’s protective vest from additional knife strikes.
Investigations are ongoing, with two parallel reviews underway:
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is conducting an independent review to assess the legality of the officer’s use of deadly force.
The SMPD’s Internal Affairs Division is performing a thorough administrative review to ensure departmental policies and procedures were followed.
Authorities are also examining the suspect’s background, including his mental health history and potential motives for targeting law enforcement.
Transparency and Community Engagement
The SMPD emphasized the need for transparency, releasing graphic footage and forensic evidence to provide context for the incident. Viewer discretion is strongly advised due to the violent nature of the content.
For more information, contact the SMPD or visit their official website. Updates will be shared as investigations continue. Anyone with additional details about the suspect or the events leading up to the attack is encouraged to reach out to SMPD detectives.
Santa Monica, November 8, 2024 – The Santa Monica Police Department’s Mounted Unit was actively patrolling Palisades Park on Friday, November 8, 2024, reinforcing the city’s commitment to public safety.
The Mounted Unit is integral to maintaining a visible and effective law enforcement presence in the community. Their expertise in navigating crowded areas makes them essential for managing the bustling beachfront and ensuring rapid responses to emergencies.
Community members greatly appreciate the Mounted Unit, valuing not only their law enforcement efforts but also the sense of security and trust they foster. The presence of mounted officers in Palisades Park highlights Santa Monica’s dedication to creating safe and welcoming public spaces for all residents and visitors.
The Santa Monica Police Department continues to prioritize innovative approaches to public safety, with the Mounted Unit playing a pivotal role in these initiatives.
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 Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Santa Monica police officers approached a street performer near the entrance of the Santa Monica Pier, citing concerns over public safety regulations. The performer, stationed in a marked fire access zone, was informed that performing in that location was prohibited due to potential obstruction. The performer argued passionately, citing his First Amendment right to perform in public spaces. Officers acknowledged his right to perform but emphasized that compliance with fire access regulations was non-negotiable.
The officers referenced Santa Monica Ordinance 4.55.050, which mandates the maintenance of clear accessways in public areas. The ordinance states: “No person shall block, impede or obstruct, or leave or cause to be left, anything so as to block, impede or obstruct, any beach or park pathway, sidewalk, recreational court or facility, or any entrance, exit or approach to any park building, structure, or recreational court or facility, except as authorized by the City.” This regulation aims to ensure public safety and accessibility, especially in high-traffic areas such as the entrance to the pier.
After a brief but intense exchange, officers warned that continued performance in the restricted zone would result in a citation. Recognizing the need to comply, the street performer ultimately gathered his equipment and shifted a few feet away to a permissible area outside the fire access zone.
The situation drew the attention of onlookers who gathered to observe the interaction, with some expressing support for the street performer’s rights while others showed understanding of the officers’ adherence to public safety protocols. The police presence, comprising several officers, underscored the importance of maintaining clear and accessible routes in busy public spaces.
Witnesses noted that while the dialogue grew heated at moments, it ultimately concluded without further incident. This episode highlights the delicate balance between supporting freedom of expression and enforcing municipal safety regulations in Santa Monica's popular public venues.
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.
Santa Monica Police Department’s Directed Action Response Team (DART) officers arrested a woman suspected to be homeless on suspicion of public intoxication at Muscle Beach. The woman was reportedly found near an empty vodka bottle, raising concerns over her level of intoxication.
Following her arrest, officers gathered her belongings and transported her to jail for booking. The charge of public intoxication in California, classified as a misdemeanor under Penal Code Section 647(f), also known as “drunk in public,” can carry a penalty of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 upon conviction. Under this law, individuals found in public under the influence of alcohol or drugs, in a condition unable to ensure their own or others’ safety, may be subject to arrest.
The incident underscores ongoing challenges with public intoxication in community spaces, where authorities continue to enforce measures to protect public safety.
Santa Monica Police responded to a call regarding a series of petty thefts at Santa Monica Beach on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. According to reports, a woman was seen walking through the beach parking lots, stealing items from parked cars. One incident involved a man loading his surfboard into his vehicle when the woman grabbed his keys from the front passenger seat.
Officers swiftly located the suspect nearby and placed her under arrest. Authorities confirmed that the woman had stolen from a total of three victims. The stolen items were recovered and returned to their rightful owners.
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.
The Santa Monica Police Department is continuing its investigation into a tragic DUI-related vehicular manslaughter that occurred on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at approximately 11:30 PM. The incident took place near the 1400 block of the beach, where a female victim was fatally struck by a vehicle driven on the sand. The suspect, identified as 21-year-old Yuyang Sun, was arrested at the scene for driving under the influence.
Authorities are requesting assistance from any individuals who were present at the scene and may have helped during the incident. The department is seeking witnesses to provide information that could be crucial to the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with details about the incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Evan Raleigh at evan.raleigh@santamonica.gov or Sergeant Krueger at nick.krueger@santamonica.gov.
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 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.
On Wednesday morning, October 23, 2024, at approximately 8 a.m., musician and artist Yng Univerze was robbed at knifepoint near the Venice Beach restrooms. Yng Univerze stated that a group of men approached him, one of whom brandished a knife, and forcibly took his skateboard. The situation escalated briefly, but Yng Univerze was able to recover his skateboard after confronting the group. He also mentioned that one of the individuals asked him for meth, which he does not use. Shaken by the incident, Yng Univerze left the scene. The Venice Safe Team witnessed part of the altercation and contacted the LAPD, but the suspects fled before officers arrived. Police are actively searching for the individuals involved.
The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) is seeking the public's help to identify a suspect involved in an assault that took place on September 22, 2024, at approximately 12:35 a.m. The incident occurred near the 1400 block of Alley 5 (5th Court). The suspect is described as a male, possibly Black or of another race, aged between 25 and 35, with bleached blonde hair, a black beard, and tattoos on his arms. Authorities do not believe he is homeless.
A video of the suspect can be viewed here, and community members are encouraged to review it for any potential leads. The suspect was last seen fleeing eastbound on Santa Monica Boulevard, heading toward 7th Street. SMPD detectives have pursued various leads but have yet to identify the individual.
Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to contact Detective Sean Baker via email at sean.baker@santamonica.gov, or by calling the SMPD Watch Commander at 310-458-8427. Authorities emphasize that any information, no matter how minor, could prove vital in apprehending the suspect and ensuring justice for the victim.
