Showing posts with label Police. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Police. Show all posts

Sunday, October 13, 2024

Santa Monica Police Arrest Man Suspected of Arson in Downtown

Santa Monica Police responded to a fire call on the 400 block of Broadway Avenue on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Santa Monica Firefighters swiftly extinguished a blaze in a trash can near the intersection of Broadway Avenue and Fourth Street. Shortly after, officers apprehended a man walking away from the scene along Broadway Avenue, just a block from the fire. The individual was arrested on suspicion of arson and taken into custody. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident.

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Beachside Injury: Emergency Responders Aid Man Hurt on Santa Monica Bike Path

Santa Monica Firefighters, Police Officers, and Los Angeles County Lifeguards responded to an incident on the Santa Monica Beach Bike Path on Saturday, October 12, 2024, where a man was injured. The individual, who appeared to have stepped on a piece of glass while walking barefoot near the beach restrooms, was bleeding from his foot. Firefighters provided treatment on the scene before the man was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for further care. After the victim was taken away, Santa Monica Fire Department personnel washed the blood from the concrete using water and bleach to clean the area.

Friday, October 11, 2024

SMPD and Los Angeles County DA’s Office Bureau of Investigation Arrest Parolee in Palisades Park

On Friday, October 11, 2024, a special task force comprised of the Santa Monica Police Department's Directed Action Response Team (DART),  SMPD Crime Impact Team (CIT), and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation's Violence Reduction Team conducted a focused operation to address rising crime in Santa Monica. Approximately 20 officers participated in the operation, working collaboratively to combat high-crime incidents across the city.

The task force prioritizes targeted enforcement, surveillance, and community outreach in areas identified as crime hotspots. Their efforts aim to reduce crime rates and enhance public safety, operating beyond routine patrols.

According to SMPD, the operation resulted in 14 arrests, 11 citations, and 13 field interviews. The arrests ranged from weapons violations (including possession of a dirk or dagger), possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia, to probation and parole violations, and a DUI.

During the operation, Santa Monica Police Officers arrested a man on parole at Palisades Park for suspicion of possessing drug paraphernalia and an outstanding warrant. The suspect was taken into custody and transported to jail.

The task force remains committed to creating a safer environment for the Santa Monica community.

Venice Beach Skate Park Cleanup: Homeless Encampment Cleared as Police and Park Rangers Oversee

During the weekly large-scale cleanup at Venice Beach Skate Park, a homeless man was asked by sanitation workers to remove his encampment. He was given 15 minutes to pack his belongings so the cleanup could proceed.

Police officers and Los Angeles Park Rangers were on-site to oversee the process, ensuring compliance with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in city parks to maintain safety and accessibility. No citations were issued.

After the area was cleared, sanitation workers moved on to other encampments in the area. The cleanup was part of a coordinated multi-agency effort involving LAPD, Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., LAHSA, and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office.

This efficient operation, with workers in protective gear handling hazardous and non-hazardous waste, reflects the city’s commitment to public health and safety while addressing homelessness compassionately. LAHSA provided essential services, such as food, water, and hygiene kits, highlighting the city’s preference for supportive over punitive measures.

These weekly cleanups, part of a broader initiative, are key to addressing homelessness while maintaining public safety, with Councilwoman Traci Park’s office ensuring a humane and balanced approach.


Tense Scene as Police Dismantle Homeless Man's Tent During Weekly Cleanup at Venice Beach

Venice, Los Angeles – October 11, 2024* — As part of the ongoing weekly cleanup efforts targeting homeless encampments at Venice Beach, sanitation workers asked a homeless man to remove his belongings from his campsite. The man was given 15 minutes to pack his items so that the cleanup could proceed. When he did not gather his belongings within the allotted time, sanitation workers collected his items, placing some in storage for later retrieval while disposing of others.

Los Angeles Police officers and Park Rangers were present to ensure compliance with local regulations, as outlined by Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits the erection of tents in city parks. This regulation is designed to keep public spaces safe and accessible for all. No citations were issued during the incident.

Once the encampment was cleared, sanitation workers continued their efforts, moving on to other encampments in the area as part of the broader cleanup operation.

This coordinated multi-agency effort was led by Los Angeles Park Rangers and included the LAPD, Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., LAHSA, and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office.

The operation was executed efficiently, with sanitation workers in protective gear sorting and removing hazardous and non-hazardous waste. This effort underscores the city’s ongoing commitment to improving public health and safety while addressing homelessness with compassion and support.

LAHSA provided essential services, including food, water, and hygiene kits, further emphasizing the city’s focus on support rather than punishment. No citations for public camping were issued during the cleanup, highlighting the city’s preference for non-punitive measures in addressing homelessness.

These weekly cleanups are part of a larger city initiative aimed at addressing homelessness while maintaining public safety. Councilwoman Traci Park’s office continues to play a key role in ensuring a balanced and humane approach to these ongoing challenges at Venice Beach.

Venice Beach Cleanup: Park Rangers and Police Supervise Removal of Homeless Encampment

Venice, Los Angeles – October 11, 2024 — As part of the weekly large-scale cleanup operation at Venice Beach, a homeless man camping in the area was asked by sanitation workers to remove his encampment. Los Angeles Police officers and Park Rangers were present to oversee the process, ensuring compliance with city regulations. No citations were issued during the incident, which was carried out in accordance with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, prohibiting tents in city parks to maintain safety and accessibility for all.

Once the encampment was dismantled and the area cleaned, sanitation workers continued their efforts, moving on to other encampments along the beach.

The operation was part of a coordinated multi-agency effort led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, involving the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office.

Workers in protective gear efficiently sorted and removed hazardous and non-hazardous waste, demonstrating the city’s ongoing commitment to public health and safety. LAHSA provided essential services to those affected, including food, water, and hygiene kits, reinforcing the city’s focus on supportive rather than punitive actions. No citations for public camping were issued, in line with the city's compassionate approach to addressing homelessness.

These weekly cleanups are a critical component of a broader initiative aimed at addressing the complexities of homelessness while maintaining public safety. With regular operations every Friday, Councilwoman Traci Park’s office continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring a humane and balanced response to the challenges at Venice Beach.

Santa Monica Police Arrest Suspect in Stolen Electric Bike Case at the Beach

Santa Monica, CA – October 11, 2024: Santa Monica Police arrested a man at Santa Monica Beach on Friday following the recovery of a stolen electric bike. The incident unfolded after a surfer, who had ridden his electric bike to Venice Beach earlier in the day, discovered it was missing when he returned from the ocean. Luckily, the bike was equipped with a tracking device, which allowed the owner to trace it to Santa Monica. He promptly contacted local authorities for assistance. Santa Monica officers responded quickly, using the tracking data to pinpoint the bike’s location. Upon arrival, they detained a man near the stolen bike while conducting their investigation. The bike's owner confirmed the electric bike was his, and it was returned in the same condition as when it was taken. While the suspect did not confess to the theft, officers discovered he had an outstanding warrant. The man was arrested and transported to Santa Monica Jail. The police are continuing their investigation into the bike theft and possible additional charges.

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Police Detain Teenagers at Santa Monica Pier After Confrontation with Arcade Employees

Santa Monica, CA – On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Santa Monica Police officers detained a group of teenagers at the Santa Monica Pier following an incident at Playland Arcade. The teenagers had been asked to leave the arcade after allegedly displaying rowdy behavior.

According to witnesses, the situation escalated outside the arcade, where the teenagers engaged in a heated verbal confrontation with Playland Arcade employees, reportedly threatening them during the altercation.

Officers responded to the scene, investigated the situation, and ultimately released the teenagers without taking further action. No arrests were made.

Parolee Arrested at Santa Monica Beach After Smoking Violation Leads to Parole Breach Discovery

Santa Monica, CA – On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, officers from the Santa Monica Police Department’s Crime Impact Team (CIT) arrested a man at Santa Monica Beach following a stop for a municipal code violation. The individual was initially approached for smoking in a prohibited area, but upon further investigation, officers discovered the man was in violation of his parole and subsequently took him into custody.

The arrest stemmed from a violation of Santa Monica’s Smoking Ordinance, Section 4.44.020(a) of the Municipal Code, which prohibits smoking in public parks and other designated areas. Violators face fines ranging from $100 to $500, depending on the severity and recurrence of the offense. The law also extends to vaping and marijuana use, with penalties increasing under specific conditions. Exceptions exist for designated smoking areas and some private residences.

The Crime Impact Team, a specialized unit of four officers and one sergeant, plays a proactive role in enhancing public safety in Santa Monica. Unlike routine patrol units, CIT members focus on targeted enforcement, surveillance, and community outreach. Their primary objective is to address crime hotspots across the city and implement strategies to reduce crime rates.

Santa Monica Police Issue Citations to Homeless Campers at Santa Monica Beach

On the morning of Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Santa Monica Police officers from the Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) issued citations to two homeless individuals found camping in a tent at the Santa Monica Pier parking lot. The camping activity violated Santa Monica Municipal Code 4.08.095, which prohibits camping in public areas, including beaches, streets, parks, and government properties. The code strictly forbids such activities to maintain public safety and preserve these spaces for public use.

After receiving the citations, the campers asked if they could have some time to dismantle the tent and gather their belongings. The officers granted their request, allowing them additional time and indicating they would return in an hour to check on the situation.

This incident highlights the Santa Monica Police Department's ongoing efforts to address the complexities of homelessness in the city. The Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) plays a key role in supporting vulnerable individuals through outreach, relationship-building, and collaboration with various city and county agencies. HLP's focus is on prioritizing mental health services and offering alternatives to incarceration, ensuring that those in need receive appropriate care and resources.

The program works closely with the Santa Monica Fire Department, Human Services Division, and the City Attorney’s Office to provide a holistic approach to homelessness, aiming to improve community well-being while upholding city regulations designed to maintain public safety and shared spaces.

Venice Beach Crackdown: LAPD Enforces Tent Ban, CIRCLE Team Assists Homeless

On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers were at Venice Beach to enforce Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits the erection of tents in city parks. Officers issued advisals to homeless individuals camping in tents along the beach, ensuring these public spaces remain safe and accessible to all visitors. In addition to the advisals, LAPD officers facilitated support for the unhoused by contacting the CIRCLE (Crisis and Incident Response through Community-led Engagement) team. The team was expected to arrive within the hour to offer services and assistance to those camping at the beach. CIRCLE is a 24/7 alternative response program designed to handle non-urgent 9-1-1 calls related to unhoused individuals. The program deploys trained crisis response teams, including licensed mental health clinicians and outreach workers with lived experience, to engage with individuals in need and provide access to essential services. The goal of CIRCLE is to improve interactions with unhoused Angelenos and allow LAPD to focus on traditional law enforcement efforts. Since its pilot launch in January 2022, the CIRCLE program has expanded beyond Hollywood and Venice to other parts of Los Angeles, with teams conducting proactive outreach and responding to calls for assistance. Their work is supplemented by outreach teams operating in areas of high need, offering resources such as water, snacks, and Narcan to reverse opioid overdoses.

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Officer Involved Shooting Update: Suspect in Stabbing Identified, Possible Robbery Connection

Santa Monica, CA — The Santa Monica Police Department has provided an update regarding the officer-involved stabbing incident that occurred on October 5, 2024. The officer, who was the victim of an unprovoked attack in front of the police station, was stabbed multiple times by a male suspect before discharging his weapon. The suspect died at the scene.

The suspect has been identified as Deyaa Abdelhadi Halaibeh, born on March 3, 1996, and a resident of New York State. His current housing status is unknown, and there are no prior records of criminal history or contacts with the Santa Monica Police Department in California.

New information suggests that Halaibeh was involved in a robbery at the Target store on 420 Broadway just minutes before the attack. According to store security, a male suspect had pushed an employee to the ground and stolen a box of kitchen knives, one of which was later used in the assault on the officer. The 8-inch chef's knife, taken from the box, was recovered at the scene.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are seeking any additional information about the suspect or the incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Zamfirov at peter.zamfirov@santamonica.gov or Detective Sergeant Lozano at alfonso.lozano@santamonica.gov. The public can also reach the Watch Commander at any time by calling (310) 458-8427.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

For media inquiries, contact Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at erika.aklufi@santamonica.gov.

Santa Monica Officers and Mental Health Clinician Respond to Homeless Crisis, No Charges Filed in Park Incident

On Tuesday, October 8, 2024, Santa Monica Police Officers from the Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) responded to reports of a homeless man behaving erratically at Palisades Park. Joined by a Public Health Clinician from the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health, officers observed the individual before engaging him. After an initial assessment, the man was handcuffed and taken for a clinical evaluation. No criminal charges are expected to be filed. This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of the Santa Monica Police Department to address the complexities of homelessness in the city. The Homeless Liaison Program (HLP) plays a key role in supporting vulnerable individuals through relationship building, outreach, and collaboration with various city and county agencies. The goal of the HLP is to prioritize mental health services and alternatives to incarceration, ensuring that those in need receive appropriate care and resources while maintaining public safety. The HLP works closely with the Santa Monica Fire Department, Human Services Division, and City Attorney’s Office to offer a holistic approach to homelessness, aiming to improve community well-being by addressing both individual needs and city regulations.

Sunday, October 6, 2024

Police Officers Arrest Unhoused Man After Assault on Restroom Ambassador in Venice

On Sunday, October 6, 2024, a Restroom Ambassador was assaulted by an unhoused man near the Venice Beach restrooms on Rose Avenue. The incident occurred when the ambassador was opening a restroom door, and the man unexpectedly punched her in the head. After the assault, the man fled, prompting the ambassador to call the police and follow him as he walked east on Rose Avenue toward Main Street. During the pursuit, the man yelled and threatened the ambassador. The confrontation escalated when the man turned back toward her on Main Street, leading the ambassador to use pepper spray in self-defense. Los Angeles Police Department officers arrived shortly afterward and interviewed the ambassador, witnesses, and the assailant. The man was arrested for battery and transported to jail for booking. The Restroom Ambassador is part of the "Vibrant Venice Initiative," a program introduced by Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park to enhance public amenities at Venice Beach. As part of this initiative, restroom ambassadors are stationed at public restrooms to ensure they are safe, accessible, and clean. They monitor entry, prevent large items like shopping carts and luggage from entering, and help maintain the restrooms’ intended use. Councilwoman Park launched the program to address issues of vandalism and misuse of public restrooms by unhoused individuals, with ambassadors playing a key role in keeping these facilities welcoming and functional for all beachgoers.

Friday, October 4, 2024

Venice Safe Team Patrols Boardwalk, Clears Homeless Camps in Early Morning Operation


Venice, Los Angeles – October 4, 2024 — In the early hours of Friday morning, members of the Venice Safe Team patrolled the Venice Beach Boardwalk, requesting homeless individuals camping along the walkway to rise and dismantle their tents. The Venice Safe Team, operating daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. during the winter months, plays a crucial role in maintaining safety and order in the Venice Beach area.


Working in collaboration with local law enforcement and emergency services, the Venice Safe Team focuses on addressing a variety of community concerns, including public disturbances, vandalism, and ensuring compliance with city regulations. This morning's efforts underscore the team's ongoing mission to safeguard peace and security for both residents and visitors in this iconic beachside community.

Their proactive approach is part of broader efforts to manage homelessness and public safety along Venice Beach, ensuring that public spaces remain accessible and secure for everyone.

Venice Beach Cleanup Sees Homeless Man Comply with Tent Removal at Skateboard Park

Venice, Los Angeles – October 4, 2024 — During the weekly large-scale cleanup operation targeting homeless encampments, a homeless man camping near the Venice Beach Skateboard Park was asked by sanitation workers to remove his tent. The man complied, dismantling his tent as part of the city’s ongoing effort to maintain public spaces. Police officers and Los Angeles Park Rangers were present to oversee the process, ensuring compliance. No citations were issued during the incident.

After the tent was removed, sanitation workers continued their cleanup efforts, moving on to address other encampments in the area.

This operation was part of a coordinated multi-agency effort led by Los Angeles Park Rangers. The task force included the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office.

The operation was conducted efficiently, with workers in protective gear sorting and removing both hazardous and non-hazardous waste. This ongoing cleanup highlights the city’s commitment to improving public health and safety while addressing homelessness in a compassionate and supportive manner.

LAHSA provided essential services, including food, water, and hygiene kits to those affected by the cleanup, underscoring the city's focus on support over punishment. No citations for public camping were issued during the cleanup, reinforcing the city’s preference for compassionate, non-punitive measures.

These weekly cleanups are part of a broader initiative aimed at addressing the complexities of homelessness while maintaining public safety. With regular operations every Friday, Councilwoman Traci Park’s office plays a vital role in ensuring a balanced and humane approach to these ongoing challenges at Venice Beach.

Tensions Rise as Homeless Man Dismantles Tent Under Police Supervision During Cleanup

Venice, Los Angeles – October 4, 2024 — During the weekly large-scale cleanup targeting homeless encampments at Venice Beach, a homeless man found camping near the handball courts was asked by sanitation workers to remove his tent. The man complied, dismantling the tent as part of the cleanup process. Los Angeles Police Officers and Park Rangers were on hand to ensure the operation proceeded smoothly and safely. After the man's tent was removed, sanitation workers continued their efforts, moving on to address other encampments in the area. This operation was part of a broader initiative coordinated by a multi-agency task force, led by Los Angeles Park Rangers and involving the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office. Personnel in protective gear worked diligently to sort and remove hazardous and non-hazardous waste, demonstrating the city’s commitment to improving public health and safety while addressing homelessness with compassion. LAHSA was present to offer essential services, such as food, water, and hygiene kits, further emphasizing the city’s focus on support rather than punishment. No citations for public camping were issued, reinforcing the city’s preference for non-punitive measures in dealing with homelessness. These weekly cleanups are an essential part of the city's strategy to maintain public safety and sanitation while addressing the root causes of homelessness. With Councilwoman Traci Park’s office ensuring a humane and balanced approach, the regular Friday operations continue to play a vital role in keeping Venice Beach safe and clean.

Venice Beach Cleanup Escalates as Police Escort Homeless Woman from Encampment

Venice, Los Angeles – October 4, 2024 — During a large-scale cleanup operation at Venice Beach on Friday, a homeless woman camping near the Venice Beach pergola was asked by Los Angeles Police Officers and Park Rangers to gather her belongings and vacate the area so the cleanup could proceed. Given 15 minutes to comply, the woman was initially uncooperative, resulting in officers and Park Rangers escorting her out of the area. Following her removal, the sanitation crew disposed of trash and cleaned the site. No citations were issued.

This cleanup was part of a broader operation coordinated by a multi-agency task force. Led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, the effort involved the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office.

Personnel in protective gear worked efficiently to sort and remove hazardous and non-hazardous waste, highlighting the city’s commitment to improving public health and safety while addressing homelessness with compassion. LAHSA provided essential services, including food, water, and hygiene kits, to those affected by the cleanup, reinforcing the city’s focus on supportive measures rather than punitive actions.

These weekly cleanups, held every Friday, are a key part of the city’s initiative to address the complexities of homelessness while maintaining public safety. The regular operations are a crucial component of the city’s strategy to keep Venice Beach safe and clean, with Councilwoman Traci Park’s office ensuring a balanced and humane approach to these challenges.


 

Daisy Standoffs with Officers During Venice Beach Cleanup Over Pop-Up "Goddess Temple"

Venice, Los Angeles – October 4, 2024 — During the weekly homeless encampment cleanup at Venice Beach, a brief standoff occurred between "Daisy the Venice Healer" and Los Angeles Park Rangers, as they requested her to dismantle her "Goddess Temple," a 10x10 pop-up tent she had set up on the beach. Daisy initially refused, standing her ground when asked to take it down. 

After discussions with both the Park Rangers and LAPD officers, a peaceful agreement was reached. Daisy agreed to take down her temple voluntarily, allowing the cleanup task force to continue its operation. She dismantled the pop-up tent that serves as her temple, and the task force moved on to address other homeless encampments along Venice Beach.

This encounter occurred as part of a broader large-scale cleanup operation targeting homeless encampments. The operation, coordinated by a multi-agency task force, included the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., and the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), with a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office also present.

Earlier in the day, a local homeless artist was given 15 minutes to gather her belongings before sanitation workers cleared her encampment. While she was able to save her art and some personal items, the remaining belongings were discarded.

The operation proceeded smoothly, with workers clad in protective gear carefully sorting and removing hazardous and non-hazardous waste. LAHSA provided essential services to those affected, including food, water, and hygiene kits, emphasizing the city's focus on support rather than punishment. No citations for public camping were issued, reflecting the city's compassionate approach to addressing homelessness.

These weekly cleanups are a critical part of the city’s strategy to maintain safety and sanitation at Venice Beach while addressing the complex issue of homelessness. The efforts are overseen by Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, ensuring a balanced and humane approach to these ongoing challenges.


 

Tensions Rise as Officers Confront Homeless Artist During Venice Beach Cleanup

Venice, Los Angeles – October 4, 2024 — A large-scale cleanup operation targeting a homeless encampment, including that of a local homeless artist, took place at Venice Beach on Friday, coordinated by a multi-agency task force. The operation, led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, involved the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office.

During the cleanup, a homeless artist was given 15 minutes by sanitation workers to gather her belongings and relocate. She managed to save her art paintings and some personal items, but the rest of her belongings were discarded as part of the cleanup process. 

The operation was executed efficiently, with personnel in protective gear carefully sorting and removing hazardous and non-hazardous waste. This cleanup effort highlights the city’s ongoing commitment to improving public health and safety while addressing homelessness in a compassionate manner.

LAHSA provided essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits to those affected by the operation, emphasizing the city's focus on support over punishment. No citations for public camping were issued during the cleanup, underscoring the city’s preference for compassionate, non-punitive measures.

This weekly cleanup is part of a broader city initiative to address the complexities of homelessness while maintaining public safety. The regular Friday operations are a critical component of the city’s strategy to keep Venice Beach safe and clean, with Councilwoman Traci Park’s office ensuring a humane and balanced approach to these ongoing challenges.