A Behind-the-Scenes Look: Santa Monica Fire Station Open House Welcomes Families for a Day of Exploration

Santa Monica Fire Station No. 1 hosted an open house on Saturday, October 12, 2024, drawing in families and children for a hands-on experience with the fire department. Visitors were given the opportunity to meet with firefighters, explore the inside of fire trucks, and get a close look at the equipment used in everyday fire and rescue operations. Children excitedly climbed aboard the fire trucks, while firefighters explained the critical tools they use during emergencies. The event allowed attendees to ask questions and learn more about the vital role the fire department plays in community safety. The open house was part of Santa Monica’s Fire Prevention Week, which emphasized the importance of working smoke alarms in saving lives. The initiative highlighted the necessity of functioning smoke alarms in homes, as they reduce the risk of death in home fires by 54%, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It was noted that three out of five fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms. “Working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, giving people the time to get out safely,” said Santa Monica Fire Marshal Joe Cavin. “This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign was a great way to remind everyone about these messages and to act on them.” During the event, the Santa Monica Fire Department also provided key smoke alarm safety tips. These included installing smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on each level of the home. They stressed the importance of testing alarms monthly and replacing them after 10 years. Smoke alarms should also be chosen to meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities. Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of outreach and advocacy, underscored the significance of this message: “Smoke alarms serve as the first line of defense in a home fire, but they need to be working in order to protect people.” In addition to fire safety education, residents were encouraged to sign up for the American Red Cross’s "Sound the Alarm" program, offering free smoke alarm installations. The open house was an engaging and educational event, helping the community understand both the work of the fire department and the simple steps that can prevent fire-related tragedies.

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.

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.

Surviving Venice: Homeless Resident Chip Monk Shares Candid Thoughts on Life’s Struggles

On the morning of Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Santa Monica Closeup's photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz encountered Venice Beach local Chip Monk, a homeless resident known in the area. Monk, reflecting on his life and interactions with police, spoke candidly about his philosophy of "going with the flow." He explained how the police treat him amicably, respecting his non-confrontational approach. Monk elaborated on broader themes, including life’s authoritarian structures and the balance between good and bad, both in a spiritual and societal sense. He shared a deeply personal reflection, revealing that he has been clinically dead three times in the past seven years. According to Monk, these near-death experiences left him with the belief that in the end, “it’s just you and God," with each individual ultimately judging themselves. Chip also touched on topics ranging from his thoughts on societal expectations to homelessness and his struggles to maintain a positive mindset despite his circumstances. In a moment of humor and humility, he demonstrated his poor man’s didgeridoo, a vacuum hose, and mused about performing on the Venice Boardwalk. For Monk, life is about self-acceptance and understanding that everyone has their own journey. He emphasized the importance of creation, whether through art or personal growth, as a means of survival and fulfillment in a world that often feels overwhelming.