Park Rangers Remove Tent at Venice Beach as Homeless Man Refuses to Move

Venice, Los Angeles – September 27, 2024 — During a large-scale cleanup operation at the Venice Beach Boardwalk on Friday, Los Angeles Park Rangers encountered a man sleeping inside a tent as part of their weekly homeless encampment cleanup. The man appeared to be asleep and unresponsive to repeated requests from the rangers to move so that the area could be cleared.

Despite several attempts to wake the individual, who remained inside his tent, the rangers proceeded to drag him out while he continued to lie there, unbothered by their efforts. Once the man was safely moved, park officials cleaned up the surrounding area, removing the tent and other waste. However, the man was left at the scene without further disturbance.

The cleanup was part of a broader effort led by a multi-agency task force, including Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office. The operation focused on removing hazardous and non-hazardous waste from the area.

As part of the city's ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness with compassion, LAHSA was on-site providing essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits. No citations for public camping were issued, reflecting a strategy centered on support rather than punitive measures.

These cleanups, held every Friday, aim to maintain public safety while addressing the complexities of homelessness. Personnel from various departments, clad in protective gear, carefully sorted and disposed of waste, ensuring the area was left clean and safe.

This initiative is a key part of the City of Los Angeles' efforts to improve public health and sanitation, with Councilwoman Traci Park’s office playing a critical role in balancing compassionate responses with maintaining public safety. The city's focus remains on supportive actions, as demonstrated by the absence of citations during this latest cleanup.

Venice Beach's regular cleanups continue to be an essential component of the city's strategy to address the root causes of homelessness while ensuring the safety and cleanliness of public spaces.

Tensions Rise During Venice Beach Cleanup as Homeless Man Confronts LAPD Over Belongings

Venice Beach, Los Angeles — On Friday, September 27, 2024, a multi-agency task force led by Los Angeles Park Rangers conducted a large-scale cleanup at the Venice Beach Boardwalk. The operation, supported by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., Los Angeles County Beaches and Harbors,  the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, focused on removing hazardous and non-hazardous waste from the area.

The cleanup highlights the city's ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness with compassion. LAHSA was on-site providing essential services, including food, water, and hygiene kits. Notably, no citations for public camping were issued, reflecting a strategy focused on support rather than punishment.

During the cleanup, a tense standoff occurred between a homeless individual and LAPD officers. The man, who identified himself as a musician known as "Joint Effort," returned to his unattended encampment while the task force was in the process of removing it. He confronted the officers as they were disposing of his belongings, which he claimed included food intended for others in need.

"This is all my stuff. I gotta move it," he exclaimed upon seeing his items being taken away. He expressed frustration over the lack of communication, stating, "I just want this stuff here so I can feed the people."

Throughout the encounter, the individual voiced his concerns about the treatment of homeless people and criticized the authorities for discarding his possessions without prior notice. "I was just sitting over there enjoying a moment of peace... and now you're taking all my stuff," he said. He emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding, suggesting that a simple greeting could have de-escalated the situation. "How are you goes a long way... This whole conversation would have never even happened if someone would have just approached me [and] was like, 'Hey, how are you?'"

Despite the tension, the situation remained non-violent. The man highlighted broader issues related to homelessness, remarking, "Everyone's one paycheck away or one traumatic experience away from being in the same position." He also touched on his personal struggles and aspirations, mentioning his efforts to pursue a music career and attend a convention in Texas. "I'm trying to go to Texas for a convention... but I would appreciate any sort of help," he said, referencing his Instagram account, @JointEffortMusic.

Held every Friday along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, these cleanups aim to maintain public safety while addressing the complexities of homelessness. Personnel from various departments, clad in protective gear, carefully sorted and disposed of waste, ensuring a safe and thorough operation.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the City of Los Angeles to address homelessness while enhancing public health and sanitation. The city's approach emphasizes coordination and compassion, with Councilwoman Traci Park’s office playing a key role in balancing humane responses with public safety.

No citations were issued during this latest cleanup, underscoring the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions. These regular cleanups continue to be a vital part of the city's strategy to maintain cleanliness and safety while addressing the root causes of homelessness.

Disturbance in Venice: Paramedics and Police Respond to Violent Encounter in Venice

On Friday, September 27, 2024, the Venice Safe Team was called to Gjusta Grocery following reports of a disturbance involving a man who appeared to be homeless and possibly under the influence. The individual, located outside the establishment, was causing a disruption when safety officers arrived at the scene.

Upon engagement, the man reportedly became violent and fell, striking his head on the sidewalk. The Venice Safe Team immediately called for Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics, who arrived shortly thereafter. When paramedics attempted to treat the individual, he allegedly turned aggressive, attempting to bite one of the responders. As a result, Los Angeles Police Department officers were called to assist.

Due to the man’s unwillingness to cooperate and potential danger to himself and others, paramedics administered a sedative. He was then safely transported to the hospital by ambulance.

The Venice Safe Team, which operates daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. during the winter months, plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and order of the Venice Beach area. Their efforts, in collaboration with local law enforcement and emergency services, focus on addressing issues such as public disturbances, vandalism, and compliance with city regulations. This incident underscores the team's broader mission of maintaining peace and security for both residents and visitors in this iconic community.

Attempted Homicide Arrest in Santa Monica

Santa Monica, CA – On the afternoon of September 19, 2024, Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) officers responded to a 911 call reporting an assault on the 2000 block of the beach. 

Upon arrival, officers found a 28-year-old man from West Hollywood who had been attacked while fishing near the waterline. According to the victim, the attack was unprovoked, and the suspect, who strangled him from behind, was unknown to him. The victim suffered non-life-threatening neck injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The suspect fled the scene before police arrived.

Using witness descriptions, officers were able to locate and arrest the suspect, identified as 31-year-old John Broeksmit, a homeless man originally from Illinois. Broeksmit has a history of arrests in California in 2024, including charges for public intoxication, possession of a weapon on school grounds, and tampering with a fire alarm. His most recent arrest by LAPD was on September 15, 2024, for burglary and public intoxication. He has no prior felony convictions.

On September 23, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office charged Broeksmit with one count of attempted murder. His bail was set at $2 million, and he remains in custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

The SMPD encourages anyone with information regarding the incident or the suspect to contact Detective Peter Zamfirov at peter.zamfirov@santamonica.gov or the SMPD Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.

SMPD Weekly Recap: Forensics Honored, Key Arrests, and Homeless Outreach

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) provided a comprehensive overview of the week’s activities, highlighting key incidents and initiatives from September 14 to 20, 2024. During National Forensics Science Week, the department honored its Forensics Unit by showcasing their vital contributions to solving cases and ensuring public safety through detailed analysis and fieldwork. SMPD also celebrated National Police Women’s Day, recognizing the dedication and resilience of women in law enforcement who protect the community and serve as role models for future generations.

The department reported 2,817 calls for service this week, bringing the year-to-date total to 92,789. Of these, 1,801 were citizen-initiated and 1,016 were officer-initiated. Homeless-related incidents accounted for 18% of total calls, while there were 37 encampment calls and 16 calls for mental health-related holds. SMPD made 59 arrests during the week, adding to the 1,993 year-to-date total.

Among notable incidents, officers responded to an assault with a deadly weapon on Wilshire Boulevard, where a suspect attacked a victim with a cane and electrical cord. The suspect was arrested without incident. In another case, a 14-year-old boy was assaulted by an adult near Colorado Avenue; the unprovoked attack is under investigation. Officers also arrested a suspect with a No Bail warrant for robbery on 2nd Street, and in a hit-and-run incident on Washington Avenue, a driver who struck a bus stop and fled on foot was apprehended for DUI and hit and run. A separate sexual battery case occurred at the beachfront, where a male suspect was detained for indecent exposure and sexual assault. Additionally, a woman was arrested for arson after setting fire to bushes in front of City Hall, claiming she was trying to scare away rats. An attempted burglary on Palisades Beach Road was foiled when juveniles were caught on surveillance video trying to break into a home under construction. One suspect, a juvenile, was cited and released to a parent.

The Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) continued its efforts with 129 calls for service, addressing six encampments and making three felony arrests. The team also conducted special details near Roosevelt Elementary, where increased homeless activity prompted periodic checks. The Directed Action Response Team (DART) made several notable arrests, including suspects with outstanding warrants for drug offenses and resisting arrest. DART officers patrolled high-traffic areas, focusing on encampments and improving the quality of life for residents and visitors.

SMPD's Community Affairs Unit engaged with local businesses and residents, conducting safety meetings and providing de-escalation training. Officers also attended neighborhood association meetings to discuss crime statistics and address concerns. Outreach efforts included a presentation on workplace safety and verbal de-escalation to staff at Clare Matrix, and ongoing patrols near the American Motel to address community livability issues. The week’s efforts underscored SMPD’s commitment to keeping Santa Monica safe through proactive policing and community engagement.

Graham Stephan Exposes California's Decline: Homelessness, Crime, and Legislative Failures – Santa Monica at the Epicenter

Popular financial YouTuber, Graham Stephan, known for his rise to millionaire status and insightful commentary, has released a powerful new video titled *"WTF Just Happened to California?!"* In this eye-opening feature, Stephan highlights the growing issues plaguing California, with Santa Monica serving as a prime example of the state's struggles. Throughout the video, key footage from Santa Monica Closeup's (SMCU) photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz captures the ongoing enforcement actions of Los Angeles Sheriff's deputies and Santa Monica police as they confront the homelessness crisis.

The video opens by addressing the alarming rise in crime and homelessness that has swept across California, and particularly Santa Monica. Once a top tourist destination, Santa Monica now finds itself at the center of a broader statewide crisis. Stephan stresses that while Santa Monica is struggling, the issues he documents—crime, theft, homelessness, and substance abuse—are symptomatic of deeper systemic failures across Los Angeles and the entire state.

Fabian Lewkowicz's compelling video clips are woven throughout Stephan’s narrative. The footage captures Los Angeles Sheriff’s deputies enforcing anti-camping regulations at the Downtown Santa Monica Metro Station, where homeless individuals frequently camp inside the trains. Additionally, Santa Monica police officers are shown engaging with homeless people in public parks, enforcing city ordinances, and making arrests, including one arrest following an assault. These scenes underscore the ongoing challenge local authorities face as they attempt to address the intersection of homelessness and crime.

Stephan also features footage of Los Angeles Police Officers (LAPD) leading encampment cleanups, as well as Los Angeles Park Rangers working to clear homeless encampments in Venice, a neighboring community. The footage provides a firsthand look at the difficult reality of managing homelessness in highly visible areas, like Santa Monica and Venice Beach.

In his analysis, Stephan critiques California’s current policies, focusing on the state's legislative response to crime and homelessness. He highlights recently signed bills by Governor Gavin Newsom that aim to combat shoplifting and retail theft. While Stephan acknowledges the intent behind these new laws, he questions their effectiveness, citing concerns over enforcement. In particular, Stephan points to the existing threshold for theft under $950, which is classified as a misdemeanor, allowing many shoplifters to evade significant consequences. The loophole, he explains, has emboldened criminals, contributing to a surge in petty theft and organized retail crime.

In a key section of the video, Stephan shares an anonymous account from someone with firsthand knowledge of Santa Monica’s inner workings. This source claims that an overwhelming majority—up to 90%—of police calls in Santa Monica involve homeless individuals, many of whom struggle with severe mental illness or substance abuse. Despite efforts to provide services, the root causes of homelessness remain largely unaddressed, and the city’s attempts to manage the crisis are strained by a lack of resources and broader systemic issues.

Santa Monica’s mayor, Phil Brock, makes an appearance in the video, providing his perspective on the city’s challenges. Mayor Brock supports legislative reforms, such as Prop 36, which would roll back the 2014 reclassification of certain thefts and drug crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. He argues that stricter enforcement is necessary to curb crime, but he also emphasizes the need for more robust mental health and addiction services. In one of the clips, Brock discusses the impact of homeless individuals being transported to Santa Monica from other parts of the state, which has compounded the city’s challenges.

Stephan delves deeper into the state’s handling of homelessness, noting that California has spent billions on homeless services and encampment cleanups, yet the problem continues to worsen. He discusses recent Supreme Court rulings that allow for the removal of homeless encampments that pose safety risks, but he questions whether this approach alone will be enough to solve the underlying issues. The encampment cleanups featured in the video, including those led by LAPD and Park Rangers, highlight the scale of the problem but also underscore the limitations of simply clearing encampments without providing long-term housing solutions.

Graham Stephan’s video, enhanced by the footage from Santa Monica Closeup and specifically photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz, paints a sobering picture of Santa Monica’s ongoing struggles. The video serves as both an exposé on California’s broader policy failures and a call to action for local governments to rethink their approach to homelessness and crime. Stephan's coverage, combined with the powerful imagery from SMCU, brings much-needed attention to the challenges facing one of California’s most iconic cities. As Stephan continues to raise awareness about these issues, it remains to be seen whether the state will make meaningful changes to reverse the tide.

Tensions Flare at Santa Monica Pier: Police Respond to Assault Among Street Performers.

Santa Monica, CA — Police officers were called to the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday, September 14, 2024, following an altercation during the daily street performers' lottery drawing. The incident involved a street performer known as "Xpoz," a breakdancer with LAB HITTERS, who claimed he was pushed and headbutted twice by another performer.

Speaking with Santa Monica Closeup, Xpoz described the incident, stating, "It’s been a long summer. This is the second time I've been assaulted at the lottery." He explained that the altercation began after he voiced his concerns about another performer copying their dance moves, which led to a heated exchange. According to Xpoz, the other performer "got really upset" and threatened to confront him at a future dance event.

Xpoz reported that the situation escalated when the other performer "pushed the code enforcement officer out of the way" before pushing and headbutting him. Despite the physical altercation, Xpoz declined to press charges, saying, "I didn't press charges 'cause he got a kid… God bless that kid."

The police investigated the incident and spoke with both parties involved. No charges were filed, and the situation was de-escalated on-site. The lottery resumed as scheduled, with all performers, including those involved in the altercation, allowed to continue participating.

Tense Standoff During Venice Beach Cleanup Highlights Challenges Faced by Homeless Community

Venice, Los Angeles – September 13, 2024: A large-scale cleanup operation at Venice Beach on Friday brought to light the complex issues surrounding homelessness in the area. During the effort, a homeless man camping on the beach was approached by Los Angeles Park Rangers and informed that he could not camp on the beach and needed to remove his belongings.

The man, who had a 10x10 pop-up tent, a kayak, a pet dog, and numerous personal items, was given 15 minutes by the rangers to dismantle his encampment. He expressed his intention to tear down the campsite and load his belongings onto his kayak to leave. Despite his efforts, not all of his possessions could fit onto the kayak within the allotted time.

As the deadline passed, sanitation workers began loading the remaining items onto their truck. They informed the man that his belongings would be moved off the beach to a nearby parking lot where he could retrieve them. The man later arrived at the parking lot to collect his items. Sanitation workers advised him that any items left unclaimed by the following day would be removed.

This incident occurred during a broader cleanup initiative led by a multi-agency task force, including Los Angeles Park Rangers, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and the office of Councilwoman Traci Park.

The operation underscores the city's commitment to addressing homelessness with compassion while maintaining public safety and cleanliness. LAHSA was present to offer essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits to those in need. Notably, no citations for public camping were issued, reflecting a strategy focused on support rather than enforcement.

These weekly cleanups along the Venice Beach Boardwalk aim to tackle the immediate health and safety concerns posed by hazardous and non-hazardous waste. Personnel equipped with protective gear meticulously sorted and disposed of waste to ensure a thorough operation.

Councilwoman Traci Park's office continues to play a pivotal role in balancing community safety with compassionate outreach. The city's approach emphasizes coordinated efforts to address the underlying causes of homelessness while enhancing public health and sanitation.

The decision to refrain from issuing citations highlights the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions. These initiatives are a key component of Los Angeles's broader strategy to assist the homeless community while maintaining the integrity of public spaces.

Tension on the Beach: Homeless Items Discarded During Coordinated Cleanup at Venice Beach

Venice, Los Angeles – September 13, 2024: A significant cleanup operation took place Friday at the border of Venice Beach and Santa Monica, an area known locally as "No Man's Land," focusing on homeless encampments that have frequently shifted between the two jurisdictions.

This zone, situated between Venice Beach and Santa Monica, has become a complex terrain for unhoused individuals navigating differing municipal regulations. On the Venice side, Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44 prohibits tents in city parks outside of designated camping areas. Meanwhile, Santa Monica's regulations categorize similar actions differently, resulting in a constant movement of encampments during regular cleanups.

The operation was a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies, including Los Angeles Park Rangers, the Department of Public Works, Los Angeles Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and Councilwoman Traci Park's office, which oversees Homelessness and Housing coordination.

LAHSA’s presence on-site highlighted the city’s strategy of combining enforcement with support, addressing both the immediate needs and the underlying challenges faced by the homeless population. This effort is part of a broader initiative led by Councilwoman Park’s office, reflecting a commitment to maintaining public spaces while ensuring that outreach and assistance are provided to those affected by these cleanups.

 

Venice Beach Cleanup: Multi-Agency Task Force Leads Effort with Supportive Approach

Venice, Los Angeles – September 13, 2024: A multi-agency task force, led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, conducted a large-scale cleanup at Venice Beach on Friday, focusing on the removal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. The effort was supported by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and the office of Councilwoman Traci Park.

The operation reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness through a compassionate lens. LAHSA was present, offering essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits to those in need. Importantly, no citations for public camping were issued, signaling a strategy centered on support rather than enforcement.

These cleanups, conducted every Friday along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, aim to maintain public safety while addressing the complex challenges associated with homelessness. Personnel from various departments, equipped with protective gear, meticulously sorted and disposed of waste, ensuring both safety and thoroughness.

This initiative forms part of a broader strategy by the City of Los Angeles to enhance public health and sanitation while tackling homelessness. The city emphasizes a coordinated, humane response, with Councilwoman Traci Park’s office playing a pivotal role in balancing community safety with compassionate outreach.

The decision to refrain from issuing citations during this cleanup underlines the city’s preference for supportive measures over punitive actions. These weekly efforts are a key component of the city’s strategy to maintain cleanliness and safety while working to address the underlying causes of homelessness.

 

Venice Beach Boardwalk Cleared in Coordinated Operation to Address Homelessness and Public Safety

Venice, Los Angeles – September 13, 2024: A large-scale cleanup effort was conducted at the Venice Beach Boardwalk on Friday by a multi-agency task force led by Los Angeles Park Rangers. The operation, supported by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, focused on removing hazardous and non-hazardous waste from the area.

The cleanup highlights the city's ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness with compassion. LAHSA was on-site providing essential services, including food, water, and hygiene kits. Notably, no citations for public camping were issued, reflecting a strategy focused on support rather than punishment. Held every Friday along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, these cleanups aim to maintain public safety while addressing the complexities of homelessness. Personnel from various departments, clad in protective gear, carefully sorted and disposed of waste, ensuring a safe and thorough operation. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the City of Los Angeles to address homelessness while enhancing public health and sanitation. The city’s approach emphasizes coordination and compassion, with Councilwoman Traci Park’s office playing a key role in balancing humane responses with public safety.

No citations were issued during this latest cleanup, underscoring the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions. These regular cleanups continue to be a vital part of the city's strategy to maintain cleanliness and safety while addressing the root causes of homelessness.

Homeless Man Arrested for Indecent Exposure and Burglary in Santa Monica

Santa Monica, CA – A 34-year-old man, identified as Anthony Townson, has been arrested following an incident of indecent exposure and residential burglary early on September 7, 2024. Officers from the Santa Monica Police Department responded to a report of a prowler at approximately 4:10 AM in the 900 block of 7th Street.

According to the police, the victim was asleep in her apartment when she was awakened by the suspect, who was touching her leg while exposing himself. The victim managed to escape and called the police. Responding officers apprehended Townson a short distance from the scene. The investigation revealed that Townson had entered the apartment through an unlocked sliding patio door.

Townson, who is currently homeless, was arraigned on September 10, and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has filed felony charges of residential burglary and indecent exposure during unlawful entry. He remains in custody with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Townson’s criminal history includes trespassing, loitering on private property, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting and obstructing police, battery on a peace officer, and carrying a concealed weapon.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Maricela Orta at (310) 458-2293, Sergeant Chad Goodwin at (310) 458-8931, or the Watch Commander desk at (310) 458-8427. 

For media inquiries, please contact Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at (310) 458-8493 or via email at Erika.aklufi@santamonica.gov.

Santa Monica Police Arrest Teen in Attempted Murder Case

Santa Monica, CA – A 19-year-old suspect from Van Nuys has been arrested following a shooting incident that took place in the early hours of September 8, 2024. The Santa Monica Police Department responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon on the 1900 block of Ocean Avenue at around 1:30 AM.

According to the police, officers arrived within minutes and detained several individuals who were attempting to leave the scene. The victim, a 24-year-old male, had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a local hospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition.

The suspect, identified as Isaac Santiago Ramos, was found in possession of a concealed handgun and was positively identified by witnesses as the shooter. Witnesses reported that Ramos, along with four other young men, approached two friends of the victim in the 2000 block of the beach, where an argument broke out. Ramos allegedly pulled out a handgun and, when the victim intervened, shot him several times before fleeing the scene.

Ramos was arraigned on September 10 and faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, mayhem, carrying a concealed and loaded firearm, and resisting arrest. His bail has been set at $4,105,000.

The Santa Monica Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Detective Reyes, Sergeant Lozano, or the Watch Commander desk, available 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.

For media inquiries, please contact Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at (310) 458-8493 or via email at Erika.aklufi@santamonica.gov.

 

Pit Bull Attack on Elderly Woman Sparks Emergency Response in Santa Monica

Santa Monica Animal Control Officers, police, and firefighters responded to a dog bite incident on the 1200 block of Lincoln Boulevard on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. According to witnesses, an elderly woman was walking on the sidewalk when a pit bull, off-leash, approached her, jumped, and bit her multiple times on both arms.

Witnesses at the scene described the chaotic moments that followed. One witness, who heard the commotion from a nearby alley, recalled, "I was taking out my trash and heard people yelling, 'They're going to put the dog down!' The dog was barking, and people were screaming, so I walked over." Another witness, who saw the attack unfold, added, "The lady was just walking down the street when the dog came out of nowhere, running and jumping on her. People tried to stop the dog—it was just terrible."

The dog's owner reportedly left the scene, getting into an Uber without providing any information. "I saw the owner grab the dog and leave," another witness stated. "She kept saying her dog was on a leash the whole time, but it wasn't."

Paramedics treated the injured woman on-site, applying bandages before transporting her to a nearby hospital for further care. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are seeking information about the dog and its owner.

Santa Monica Fire Department Hosts 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony to Honor the Fallen

The Santa Monica Fire Department held its annual September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance Ceremony on September 11, 2024, at Fire Station #1, in line with protocols recommended by the International Association of Fire Chiefs. The ceremony, attended by firefighters, police officers, community members, and local officials, was part of a city-wide effort involving Fire Stations 1, 2, and 3.

At 8:46 AM, a moment of silence was observed to mark the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center in 2001. The ceremony featured the traditional ringing of a bell, a sign of respect for the 343 FDNY firefighters, 60 police officers, and 8 EMT/paramedics who lost their lives in the attacks. In total, the 2001 attacks resulted in 2,977 fatalities, including five individuals with connections to Santa Monica.

- At 6:59 AM, a city-wide alert was issued to all fire stations, followed by three alert tones, signaling all Santa Monica units to stand by for the 9/11 detail.

- At 7:01 AM, additional alert tones were sounded, and a moment of complete silence was observed.

The ceremony concluded with a reminder of the ongoing sacrifices made by first responders.

The Santa Monica Fire Department’s remembrance ceremony served as a solemn tribute to the lives lost and as a reaffirmation of the community's commitment to never forget the bravery and sacrifice of those who serve to protect. ‪#‎WeWillNeverForget‬ 

Santa Monica Police Arrest Graffiti Suspect After Foot Chase Near Ocean Way

Santa Monica, CA — Officers from the Santa Monica Police Department's Crime Impact Team (CIT) arrested a man at Ocean Way on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. The suspect was reportedly seen spray-painting graffiti at Santa Monica Beach when CIT officers witnessed the activity and approached him. The man attempted to flee, prompting a foot chase that ended a few blocks away, where officers apprehended him.

Paramedics were called to the scene to evaluate the suspect and clear him for transport to jail. Once medically cleared, the man was placed in a squad car and taken into custody. He is expected to face charges of vandalism and obstruction. The Crime Impact Team is a specialized unit within the Santa Monica Police Department, consisting of four officers and a sergeant. The team focuses on crime suppression and targets specific hotspots throughout the city. Unlike regular patrol units, the CIT is not assigned routine radio calls, allowing them to concentrate on proactive crime-fighting strategies. These efforts include targeted enforcement, surveillance, and community outreach, with a focus on preventing crime through visibility and engagement with the community. The CIT aims to reduce crime rates and enhance safety across Santa Monica.

Police Respond to Possible Stolen Military Hummer at Santa Monica Beach

On Tuesday, September 10, 2024, a Santa Monica Police Officer and a Los Angeles Police Officer responded to reports of a possible stolen military Hummer at a Santa Monica Beach parking lot. The vehicle, which was missing license plates, appeared to be abandoned, prompting concern among local authorities. After verifying the identities of the individuals on the scene, it was determined that the vehicle belonged to what appeared to be a local military base. The people present, who were identified as military personnel, were authorized to recover the vehicle and took it back to the station, resolving the matter without further incident.

Police Arrest Man After Unprovoked Rock-Throwing Incident at Santa Monica Pier

On Monday, September 9, 2024, Santa Monica Police Officers were flagged down by bystanders at the Santa Monica Pier following an unprovoked assault. Witnesses reported that a man, who appeared to be homeless, had thrown a rock at a group without any apparent cause, striking one individual in the face. The suspect, who was found to be on probation, was detained by officers at the scene while an investigation was conducted. He was subsequently arrested on assault charges. The victim was not harmed. The rock, recovered by officers, will be used as evidence in the case.

 

Bizarre Claims on Venice Beach: Homeless Man Accuses Actor of Gangstalking

On Sunday, September 9, 2024, a homeless man was seen shouting on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, drawing the attention of bystanders and a passing police patrol car. The man approached the vehicle and began delivering a rambling and disjointed statement, claiming that he was the victim of an ongoing campaign of harassment. According to a transcript of the video footage, the man alleged that a Hollywood actor named "Brian" had been "gangstalking" him for six years, purportedly backed by the FBI. He described losing significant weight due to what he believed to be targeted harassment and claimed that the actor had been "stealing from him every night." The man further accused the Hollywood actor of serious crimes, including the murder of a child and being responsible for multiple deaths. He also mentioned that his mother, whom he named as "Shar Tate," had been murdered in the Hollywood Hills, though the claims were not corroborated by any evidence on the scene. The man’s statements became increasingly erratic as he spoke of “sonar guns,” mind control, and poisoning, alluding to a broader conspiracy involving the FBI and Hollywood elites. The situation was monitored by police officers, but it remains unclear if any further action was taken. This incident highlights the complex challenges faced by law enforcement when responding to mental health crises on the streets. No further information about the man’s condition or identity was released at this time.

 

Heatwave Challenges Venice Beach Homeless Encampment Cleanup Efforts

Venice, Los Angeles – September 6, 2024: Amid a sweltering heatwave, a multi-agency task force conducted a large-scale cleanup at Venice Beach on Friday. The effort, led by Los Angeles Park Rangers and supported by the LAPD, Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., LAHSA, and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, focused on clearing both hazardous and non-hazardous waste from the area.

This coordinated operation underscores the city's ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness with a compassionate approach. LAHSA was on-site providing essential services, including food, water, and hygiene kits, and no citations for public camping were issued, reflecting a supportive rather than punitive strategy.

The cleanup is part of regular efforts held every Friday along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, aiming to maintain public safety while addressing the complex challenges of homelessness.

Simultaneously, an Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect until 8 PM PDT Monday for Los Angeles County Beaches, including Venice. Temperatures are forecasted to reach the upper 80s to 100 degrees, with little relief expected overnight. The extreme heat poses a significant risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, those without air conditioning, and individuals who are active outdoors.

Residents and visitors are advised to take precautionary measures, including staying hydrated, remaining in air-conditioned environments, avoiding direct sun exposure, and checking on relatives and neighbors. It is also critical to avoid leaving children or pets in unattended vehicles, as car interiors can reach lethal temperatures within minutes.