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.

Santa Monica College Custodial Manager Dies from Shooting Injuries

Santa Monica, CA – The Santa Monica Police Department has confirmed that Felicia Hudson, a 54-year-old Custodial Operations Manager at Santa Monica College (SMC), has succumbed to injuries sustained during the October 14 shooting at the SMC Center for Media & Design. Hudson, originally from Newnan, Georgia, passed away at a local hospital on October 16 at approximately 5:00 p.m.

The suspected shooter, identified as Davon Durell Dean, an SMC custodian, was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after being apprehended near El Segundo Blvd. in Hawthorne on October 15. Dean had a history of prior arrests but no felony convictions.

In a statement, SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Hudson, who had served the college for nearly three decades. “We are deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic loss of our colleague Felicia Hudson, who served the college with dedication and heart. She was an irreplaceable member of our community,” said Dr. Jeffery. Crisis counseling services are being provided to students and staff as the community mourns.

The college has established the Felicia Hudson Legacy Fund in collaboration with her family to honor her memory. The ongoing investigation is led by the Santa Monica Police Department. No further suspects are involved, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

For further information, media inquiries can be directed to Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at the Santa Monica Police Department, and inquiries related to Santa Monica College should be directed to Grace Smith, Director of Public Information.

Updates will be shared through the college’s official channels.

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.

Santa Monica College Manager Critically Injured in Campus Shooting; Suspect Found Dead

On the night of Monday, October 14, 2024, a Santa Monica College (SMC) Custodial Operations Manager was critically injured in a shooting at the Center for Media & Design (CMD) located on Stewart Street. The incident occurred at approximately 9:50 p.m. and has been described as an act of workplace violence.

Law enforcement officers from the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD), Santa Monica College Police Department (SMCPD), and the Santa Monica Fire Department swiftly responded to the scene, securing the campus and rendering aid. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where they remain in critical condition.

Following a prompt investigation, SMPD detectives identified Davon Durell Dean, an SMC employee, as the suspected shooter. Dean, who had a criminal record including arrests for attempted murder in 2011 and an assault with a deadly weapon in 2019, fled the scene after the shooting. His previous convictions, however, were for misdemeanor property crimes.

On the afternoon of October 15, officers from the Hawthorne Police Department located Dean’s vehicle near El Segundo Blvd. and Aviation Blvd. After a brief pursuit, officers deployed a pursuit intervention technique to stop the vehicle. Despite efforts from the Crisis Negotiations Team, Dean was found deceased inside his vehicle from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

SMCPD Chief Johnnie Adams addressed the community, stating, “As we try to make sense of this horrific act of workplace violence, the safety of our community is our primary focus. We are deeply grateful to all our law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to apprehend the suspect.”

SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery expressed her condolences, urging the community to come together during this difficult time. “At this heartbreaking time, I urge us all to come together in kindness and compassion as we navigate this unspeakable tragedy,” Jeffery said. Counseling and emotional support will be provided for students and staff.

SMPD Chief Batista commended the work of the detectives involved in the case, highlighting their dedication to the safety of the Santa Monica community. "Our officers’ commitment remains paramount," Batista said.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Authorities confirmed there are no additional suspects, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

For further inquiries regarding the investigation, media can contact Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at Erika.Aklufi@santamonica.gov. Questions related to Santa Monica College should be directed to Grace Smith, Director of Public Information, at Smith_Grace@smc.edu.

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.

KOOZA Takes Flight: Cirque du Soleil Returns to Santa Monica Pier for a Dazzling Show Under the Big Top

The internationally-acclaimed Cirque du Soleil production, **KOOZA**, is set to take over the Santa Monica Pier from October 19, 2024, through January 5, 2025. The signature white Big Top tent is already installed as preparations are in full swing.

Santa Monica, known for its deep-rooted arts and culture heritage, is celebrating the return of this beloved show. KOOZA, a dazzling spectacle blending slapstick comedy with breathtaking acrobatics, is a nod to traditional circus performances. The city has long been a home for Cirque du Soleil, hosting its first-ever U.S. performance back in 1987. The most recent production was **Totem** in 2014.

“KOOZA’s arrival is a reflection of our vibrant arts scene, and we’re excited to share this experience with visitors and locals alike,” said Misti Kerns, President/CEO of Santa Monica Travel & Tourism. “This also signifies a major boost to Santa Monica’s economic recovery through tourism.”

The show itself is a whimsical journey of self-discovery through the eyes of "The Innocent," a lovable clown transported into a zany world of acrobatics, tricks, and thrills. Featuring the High Wire, Teeterboard, and the heart-stopping Wheel of Death, the production has thrilled audiences worldwide since its debut in 2007, performing in 65 cities and 22 countries.

Santa Monica’s love affair with Cirque du Soleil continues with KOOZA’s electrifying return under the Pier's iconic Big Top. Spectators are in for an unforgettable experience filled with high-flying stunts, colorful characters, and unforgettable moments that will leave them on the edge of their seats.

(Photo by Joey Alvarez, 10.15.2024)