Quick Action by Santa Monica Officers Recovers Stolen Items from Beach Thief

Santa Monica Police responded to a call regarding a series of petty thefts at Santa Monica Beach on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. According to reports, a woman was seen walking through the beach parking lots, stealing items from parked cars. One incident involved a man loading his surfboard into his vehicle when the woman grabbed his keys from the front passenger seat. Officers swiftly located the suspect nearby and placed her under arrest. Authorities confirmed that the woman had stolen from a total of three victims. The stolen items were recovered and returned to their rightful owners.

Park Rangers Remove Homeless Woman Camping in Graffiti-Covered Clothing Donation Bin in Venice

Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 25, 2024 — During the ongoing weekly cleanup operation at Venice Beach, a homeless woman was found camping inside an abandoned clothing donation bin covered in graffiti near the Venice Art Walls. Los Angeles Park Rangers approached her and requested that she vacate the area so sanitation workers could clean. Although upset and yelling at the crew, she gathered her belongings and left. 

Sanitation workers then proceeded to clear the area, removing trash and discarded items left behind. This incident was part of a coordinated effort led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, LAPD officers, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The operation, which focused on clearing homeless encampments, was aimed at maintaining public safety and cleanliness in the area.

The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) was also present to provide essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits, reinforcing the city's commitment to supporting those experiencing homelessness through compassionate measures rather than punitive actions.

Although no citations were issued, the cleanup adhered to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents and unauthorized structures in public spaces like city parks. The multi-agency task force, which included representatives from LAHSA and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, worked efficiently to remove hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

This initiative is part of a broader citywide effort to maintain public spaces while offering support to those in need. These regular cleanups, held every week, are a critical element of Los Angeles’s strategy to balance public health and safety with a compassionate approach to homelessness.

Police Officers and Park Rangers Oversee Homeless Encampment Cleanup Operation in Venice Beach

Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 25, 2024 — As part of the ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted at the Venice Beach restrooms and surrounding areas. The effort, led by Los Angeles Park Rangers, LAPD officers, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., focused on removing a homeless encampment to maintain public safety and cleanliness.

Police officers and Park Rangers were on-site to ensure the cleanup ran smoothly. Although no citations were issued to individuals camping on the beach, the operation adhered to Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in public spaces such as city parks.

The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) was also present, providing essential services such as food, water, and hygiene kits to individuals experiencing homelessness. This further emphasized the city's commitment to a supportive approach, prioritizing assistance over punitive measures.

After clearing the restrooms, the cleanup team moved on to other encampments along the beach. The multi-agency task force, which included representatives from LAHSA and Councilwoman Traci Park’s office, worked to address public health concerns by carefully sorting and removing both hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

This initiative is part of a broader city effort to balance public space maintenance with a compassionate response to homelessness. The absence of citations during the operation reflects the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions.

These weekly cleanups are a key component of Los Angeles’s strategy to address homelessness while ensuring safety and sanitation in public areas, with a focus on supportive solutions over enforcement.

Police Seek Assistance in Fatal DUI Incident on Santa Monica Beach

The Santa Monica Police Department is continuing its investigation into a tragic DUI-related vehicular manslaughter that occurred on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at approximately 11:30 PM. The incident took place near the 1400 block of the beach, where a female victim was fatally struck by a vehicle driven on the sand. The suspect, identified as 21-year-old Yuyang Sun, was arrested at the scene for driving under the influence.

Authorities are requesting assistance from any individuals who were present at the scene and may have helped during the incident. The department is seeking witnesses to provide information that could be crucial to the ongoing investigation.

Anyone with details about the incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Evan Raleigh at evan.raleigh@santamonica.gov or Sergeant Krueger at nick.krueger@santamonica.gov.

Police Officers Keep Watch During Venice Beach Cleanup

Los Angeles, CA – October 24, 2024 – A significant cleanup operation was underway at Venice Beach on Thursday, overseen by Los Angeles Police officers. In collaboration with LA County Beaches and Harbors, crews worked to address the accumulation of debris and restore the beach to its pristine condition. Police presence served as a deterrent to any potential disruptions, ensuring a safe and efficient environment for the cleanup crews to work. The operation focused on removing trash, debris, and other unsightly materials from the beach and surrounding areas. This concerted effort is part of an ongoing commitment to maintain the cleanliness and attractiveness of Venice Beach, a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

LAPD Officers Oversee Homeless Cleanup on Pacific Avenue in Venice

Venice, Los Angeles – October 24, 2024 — A coordinated cleanup operation took place on Pacific Avenue in Venice, focusing on the removal of a homeless encampment from sidewalks in front of businesses. The City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, alongside Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., led the cleanup effort, ensuring the area was cleared in a safe and efficient manner.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers were present on-site to ensure the operation proceeded smoothly. Although no citations were issued to individuals camping on the sidewalk, the action was conducted in line with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in public spaces such as city parks.

Workers in protective gear carefully separated hazardous from non-hazardous waste, underscoring the city's focus on public health and sanitation in high-traffic areas. This operation is part of a larger weekly initiative aimed at addressing homelessness, while improving public safety and cleanliness.

The city remains committed to compassionate responses to homelessness, balancing the need for clean public spaces with support for vulnerable populations. The multi-agency task force, which includes the LAPD and Department of Public Works, continues to address these challenges with a focus on maintaining safe and accessible public spaces for all.

Assault at Venice Beach: Daisy and Teen Runaway Targeted in Violent Predawn Attack

In a distressing event reported at Venice Beach, Daisy, known as the Venice Healer, and a 14-year-old runaway named Billy were violently attacked in their tent at around 3:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. Daisy recounted the ordeal, stating that two men and two women stormed their shelter, aggressively searching for a phone they accused Billy of stealing. "They came threateningly and shook the tent, threw water everywhere, and soaked Billy's blankets," Daisy explained. The assailants did not spare her either; they physically assaulted her by pulling at her and kicking her as she lay. "I was asleep, under my ribbons, when they started kicking and hitting me," she said, describing the shock of being woken violently. Daisy also highlighted the ferocity of the attack and its impact on Billy, emphasizing his vulnerability as a child. "Billy got the brunt of it. These are grown adults, and he is just a kid," she expressed, deeply concerned for his safety. Despite the chaos, she managed to keep her composure, driven by her commitment to helping those in need at the beach. According to Daisy, the attackers rummaged through their belongings but left without finding the phone. In the aftermath, Billy, traumatized by the experience, fled the scene. "Billy ran away, really traumatized. There was no phone here," Daisy added, underlining the senselessness of the violence. The police were notified the following morning, as Daisy decided to report the incident despite her reservations about the timely response of law enforcement. "I don't snitch, but I'm going to tell the police what happened because Billy is in danger now," she declared, indicating the severity of the attack. This violent incident underscores the ongoing dangers faced by homeless individuals and particularly vulnerable youth like Billy at Venice Beach. The community and local authorities are now more alert to the safety needs of those like Daisy and Billy, who seek refuge in the relative sanctuary of the beach.

Venice Beach Robbery: Man Held at Knifepoint, Police Search for Suspects After Skateboard Theft

On Wednesday morning, October 23, 2024, at approximately 8 a.m., musician and artist Yng Univerze was robbed at knifepoint near the Venice Beach restrooms. Yng Univerze stated that a group of men approached him, one of whom brandished a knife, and forcibly took his skateboard. The situation escalated briefly, but Yng Univerze was able to recover his skateboard after confronting the group. He also mentioned that one of the individuals asked him for meth, which he does not use. Shaken by the incident, Yng Univerze left the scene. The Venice Safe Team witnessed part of the altercation and contacted the LAPD, but the suspects fled before officers arrived. Police are actively searching for the individuals involved.

Santa Monica Police Seek Public's Help in Identifying Suspect in September Assault

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) is seeking the public's help to identify a suspect involved in an assault that took place on September 22, 2024, at approximately 12:35 a.m. The incident occurred near the 1400 block of Alley 5 (5th Court). The suspect is described as a male, possibly Black or of another race, aged between 25 and 35, with bleached blonde hair, a black beard, and tattoos on his arms. Authorities do not believe he is homeless.

A video of the suspect can be viewed here, and community members are encouraged to review it for any potential leads. The suspect was last seen fleeing eastbound on Santa Monica Boulevard, heading toward 7th Street. SMPD detectives have pursued various leads but have yet to identify the individual.

Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to contact Detective Sean Baker via email at sean.baker@santamonica.gov, or by calling the SMPD Watch Commander at 310-458-8427. Authorities emphasize that any information, no matter how minor, could prove vital in apprehending the suspect and ensuring justice for the victim.

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.