UNDER THE CLOAK OF DARKNESS: Venice Beach Homeless Encampments Cleared in Overnight Cleanup Under Police Watch

Venice, Los Angeles – Tuesday, October 18, 2024 — A coordinated, multi-agency task force conducted a routine overnight cleanup operation at Venice Beach as part of the city's ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and cleanliness. The task force included the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Police Department, and St. Joseph's Center Homeless Outreach Team.

The operation began at 2 a.m. at Windward Plaza, with crews heading north to the Rose Street Parking Lot, where they cleaned around the lot and in the restrooms. The team then moved south along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, stopping at restroom facilities along the way. Inside the restrooms, workers asked individuals experiencing homelessness to exit so the areas could be cleaned. The team also removed unattended items, including tents, as part of the cleanup. 

One notable find was an abandoned grand piano missing its legs, believed to belong to "Nathan the Piano Man," a well-known Venice Beach figure. It required the entire crew to lift the piano onto a truck for disposal.

The cleanup continued with the removal of homeless encampments around the Venice Beach handball courts before the team headed south to the Venice Beach Fishing Pier, where they cleared the pier area. The operation concluded at 5 a.m.

Throughout the operation, St. Joseph’s Center Homeless Outreach Team provided food, water, and clothing to those experiencing homelessness. 

Los Angeles Police officers were present to ensure compliance with Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in city parks. No citations were issued during the cleanup, reflecting the city's focus on compassionate, non-punitive measures to address homelessness.

Workers in protective gear carefully sorted hazardous and non-hazardous waste, emphasizing the city’s commitment to public health and sanitation. These bi-weekly, overnight cleanups are part of Los Angeles’s broader strategy to address homelessness while maintaining safe and accessible public spaces.

The absence of citations highlights the city's preference for supportive solutions over enforcement.

United for Hope: Santa Monica Mounted Police Escort ‘Out of the Darkness’ Walk for Suicide Prevention

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Santa Monica Mounted Police Officers played a vital role in escorting participants of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) "Out of the Darkness Community Walk" through Palisades Park. The event drew hundreds of supporters, united in their shared mission to raise awareness and combat suicide.

The "Out of the Darkness" walks, now a fixture in cities across the U.S., have become a symbol of hope, promoting conversations about mental health and reducing stigma around suicide. Since its inception in 2004, the movement has empowered individuals to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Families, friends, and colleagues walked side-by-side, honoring those lost to suicide while supporting one another in their journeys toward healing and mental well-being.

AFSP remains at the forefront of suicide prevention efforts nationwide, focusing on public education, research, and advocacy. Their mission is clear: to create a world where mental health is better understood, and suicide is no longer a silent epidemic. These community walks serve as a platform for individuals affected by suicide to come together, raise awareness, and offer support. The hashtag #TogetherToFightSuicide has become a powerful rallying cry for participants, symbolizing the collective effort to address this pressing public health issue.

Through grassroots programs, fundraising for research, and community outreach, AFSP connects people from all walks of life, including those personally impacted by suicide, mental health professionals, educators, and leaders, creating a united front in the fight against suicide.

Tensions Flare as Homeless Items Are Thrown Away During Weekly Venice Beach Cleanup

Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 18, 2024 — As part of the ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted at Venice Beach by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The effort focused on removing a homeless encampment to maintain public safety and cleanliness in the area. Los Angeles Police officers and Park Rangers were on-site to oversee the process, ensuring compliance with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in city parks to keep public spaces safe and accessible. Sanitation workers gave individuals camping along the beach 15 minutes to pack their belongings before the cleanup began. Items left behind were either disposed of or placed in storage for later retrieval. After clearing the encampment, the cleanup team moved on to other encampments, continuing their efforts along the beach. The multi-agency task force included the LAPD, Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office. Workers in protective gear carefully sorted and removed hazardous and non-hazardous waste, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to improving public health and sanitation. LAPD officers ensured the cleanup complied with local regulations, but no citations were issued during the operation, reflecting the city's compassionate approach to addressing homelessness. This initiative is part of a broader city effort to balance public space maintenance with a compassionate response to homelessness. The absence of citations during the cleanup underscores the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions. These weekly cleanups are a critical component of Los Angeles’s strategy to address homelessness while maintaining safety and cleanliness in public areas. No citations were issued during this operation, highlighting the city’s commitment to supportive solutions over enforcement.

Tragic Accident at Santa Monica Beach: Suspected DUI Driver Kills Female Victim

Santa Monica Police Department’s Major Accident Response Team (MART) responded to a tragic incident on Santa Monica Beach early Friday morning, October 18, 2024. Authorities were called to the 1400 block of the beach following a report of a vehicle trapped in the sand. Upon arrival, harbor officers discovered an unconscious female victim, believed to be homeless, wedged beneath the vehicle. Despite efforts by the Santa Monica Fire Department to provide aid, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency crews used specialized equipment to lift the vehicle and retrieve her body.

The incident occurred late Thursday night, October 17, around 11:30 PM. The driver, identified as 21-year-old Yuyang Sun from Arcadia, CA, reportedly remained on the scene and was arrested after a DUI investigation. Witnesses stated that Sun had been driving his 2015 Infiniti SUV at high speeds, performing circles on the sand before striking the victim. He now faces charges including driving under the influence (23152(a) VC), reckless driving (23105 VC), and gross vehicular manslaughter (191.5(a) PC).

MART officers are continuing their investigation, and the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office has been notified. As of now, the identity of the female victim has not been released. Authorities are encouraging anyone with further information to contact the Santa Monica Police Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.

Our thoughts are with the victim and her loved ones during this difficult time.

Stabbing Near 5th and Broadway Leaves Unhoused Man in Serious Condition

Santa Monica, CA – On Wednesday, October 16th, 2024, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Santa Monica Police officers responded to a call regarding an individual in need of medical assistance near 5th Court and Broadway. Upon arrival, officers found a homeless man suffering from a stab wound. Emergency responders from the Santa Monica Fire Department transported the individual to a local hospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition.

The suspect, described as a Black male between the ages of 20 and 25, with dreadlocks and a distinctive “FTP” tattoo on his face, remains at large. Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) detectives are currently reviewing nearby security footage and are requesting assistance from the public. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8426.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in Santa Monica related to homelessness, substance abuse, and violent crime. The SMPD has vowed to increase patrols in the area, particularly through initiatives such as the Directed Action Response Team (DART) and the re-established Crime Impact Team (CIT). The department continues to prioritize public safety while addressing the root causes of crime in the community.

For more information or to report suspicious activities, residents are encouraged to contact SMPD’s 24/7 dispatcher at (310) 458-8491.

Police Oversee Venice Homeless Encampment Cleanup to Enforce City Regulations

Venice, Los Angeles – October 17, 2024 — As part of ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted on Main Street by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The effort focused on the removal of a homeless encampment, aiming to maintain public safety and cleanliness in the area. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers were present to ensure compliance with local regulations, specifically Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44. This code prohibits the erection of tents in city parks to keep public spaces safe and accessible for all residents and visitors. Notably, no citations were issued during the incident, reflecting the city's compassionate approach toward addressing homelessness. The multi-agency operation included the LAPD, the Department of Public Works, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., and a homeless outreach consultant from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). Workers donned protective gear as they carefully separated hazardous from non-hazardous waste to ensure a thorough and safe cleanup. This initiative is part of the city's ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness while improving public health and sanitation in high-traffic areas. The operation underscores Los Angeles's focus on balancing the maintenance of public spaces with compassionate responses to homelessness. These weekly cleanups are a component of a larger city effort aimed at addressing homelessness while ensuring public safety. The absence of citations during the cleanup highlights the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions.

Police Take Runaway Teen into Custody in Venice Beach with Help from Community

On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, Los Angeles Police Officers detained a 14-year-old runaway on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, who had been listed on the Missing Persons List. The incident followed an initial encounter the day before, when officers had spotted the youth during a routine patrol on the boardwalk. After speaking with the teenager, LAPD officers gathered his information and began investigating his circumstances. Upon returning to the station, they discovered that the teen was officially reported as missing.

Determined to resolve the situation, LAPD officers returned to Venice Beach the following day to search for the runaway. They encountered Daisy, known as the Venice Healer, and John Allgood, both of whom had been involved in the youth's care. The officers informed them that the teenager would need to be taken into custody and processed through youth services in order to return him to the foster system.

Daisy and John Allgood expressed concern for the youth and offered to speak with him to help facilitate the recovery process. They found the teenager and explained the situation, but the young runaway was resistant and did not want to surrender to the authorities.

Later that day, officers spotted the teenager again, this time at the Venice Beach Skate Park. LAPD set up a perimeter around the area and were able to safely detain the runaway. The teenager was taken back to the police station for further processing and will be placed in the appropriate youth services to continue his care and ensure his return to the foster system.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by both law enforcement and community members in supporting vulnerable youth in the foster system. Daisy and John Allgood remain committed to assisting the teen, while LAPD works to ensure his safety and proper placement in the system.

Police Arrest Suspect After Unprovoked Assault with a Deadly Weapon at Venice Beach

On Tuesday, October 14, 2024, Los Angeles Police Department officers responded to reports of an assault near the Venice Beach basketball courts. Upon arriving at the scene, officers quickly located and arrested the suspect in the area.

Witnesses stated that the suspect approached an elderly man who was drinking water from a fountain and struck him on the head with a metal pole without provocation. Los Angeles Fire Department personnel promptly arrived and administered first aid, bandaging the victim’s head. The man was later transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment.

The suspect, who had a tent near the basketball courts, had his belongings collected and processed by police after they dismantled his encampment. While the exact charges remain unconfirmed, it is suspected the individual will be charged with assault with a deadly weapon.

Venice Beach Patrol: LAPD Talks with Teenager in Foster System, Daisy and John Allgood Provide Support

On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, Los Angeles Police Officers patrolling Venice Beach encountered a teenager who, according to police, should not have been in the area. Officers stopped to speak with the youth and gathered his personal information as part of their investigation into his situation. Daisy, the Venice Healer, and John Allgood, both actively involved in the care of the teenager, were nearby and spoke with the officers during the encounter. According to John Allgood, the teenager is a runaway from a foster home. He noted that the officers were respectful and expressed a commitment to finding resources to support the youth, who has been under the care of both Allgood and Daisy. LAPD plans to continue investigating the situation and will seek appropriate resources for the teenager. In the meantime, Allgood has agreed to take responsibility for his well-being. Fabian Lewkowicz, a photojournalist with Santa Monica Closeup, spoke with John Allgood after his conversation with police. Allgood provided an update on the situation: "The officers were very respectful, and they gathered his information so they can help him get the right resources," said Allgood. "You're watching the system at work in real time, which is really nice. The challenge, though, is that it's almost like trying to hit a pool of water with a hammer—there’s a disconnect between the available resources and the people who need them. That’s where the local community steps in, and we’re trying to help bridge that gap." Allgood emphasized the importance of transparency in the process and the need to ensure the teenager receives the best possible support from both the police and the community. He also addressed concerns from the public regarding the legalities of the situation, particularly due to the boy being a minor. "I’ve been in communication with the police, and they confirmed that what we’re doing is okay. They even thanked me for stepping up, but they reminded me that if anything happens, I could be responsible. It’s all about trust—you give a little, and you get a little back. I trust this young man, and I believe he’s going to do great things." As the investigation continues, both Daisy and John Allgood remain committed to supporting the teenager and working with authorities to ensure his safety and future stability.

Police Officer Arrests Suspect in Vandalism at Lincoln Boulevard Gas Station

Santa Monica Police officers responded to a vandalism incident at the World Oil gas station located at 1801 Lincoln Boulevard on Monday, October 14, 2024. A suspect had reportedly broken the glass on the front door of the station. 

Officers quickly located the individual behind the building and took them into custody. Santa Monica Firefighters also arrived at the scene to assess if medical assistance was required, though none was needed. 

The gas station was temporarily closed for cleanup following the incident. Authorities are continuing their investigation, including a review of security footage from the site.

Tensions Flare: Vendor Arrested in Alleged Assault Attempt on Venice Beach Boardwalk

On Sunday, October 13, 2024, Los Angeles Police officers responded to a reported altercation on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. According to witnesses, a dispute between a vendor and a local man escalated when the vendor allegedly stole a cane from the man's car, which was parked in the Venice Beach parking lot. When the man confronted the vendor, the suspect reportedly raised the cane as if to strike the man. In self-defense, the victim used pepper spray on the suspect. Following this, the suspect returned to his van in the parking lot and allegedly drove toward the victim, swerving as though attempting to hit him. The suspect then called the police to report being pepper sprayed. Los Angeles Fire Department personnel arrived to offer medical assistance, though the suspect declined treatment. LAPD officers conducted interviews with several witnesses and reviewed video footage showing the suspect's alleged attempt to run over the victim. The suspect was arrested and taken in for further questioning. Additionally, the suspect's dog was taken to a local shelter, where it can be picked up at a later date.

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.

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.

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.

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.