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 Crack Down on Homeless Encampments, Conduct Compliance Checks & Issue Citations

On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, Santa Monica Police Department's Directed Action Response Team (DART) officers were actively enforcing regulations related to homeless encampments along Santa Monica Beach. The team was seen issuing advisals and citations as part of their proactive patrol efforts. Officers moved from one encampment to another, engaging with individuals and addressing compliance issues. During their patrol, officers encountered individuals under post-release community supervision (PRCS), prompting a compliance check. PRCS is designed to assist in the reintegration of lower-level felons into society while still being monitored by law enforcement. This system is distinct from felony probation, as it applies to felons after their release from state prison, with supervision managed by county agencies rather than the state parole board.

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.

Daisy Joins Councilwoman's Team in Search for Teen Runaway at Venice Beach

On Monday, October 21, 2024, representatives from Councilwoman Traci Park's office were seen on Venice Beach, actively searching for 14-year-old runaway Billy. The outreach team collaborated with SPY (Safe Place for Youth), which typically aids older teens but has agreed to make an exception for Billy. The Councilwoman's team engaged local figures, Daisy and John Allgood, at the beach, requesting their help to locate Billy and inform him about the availability of SPY services tailored to his needs. Despite searching areas like the Venice skate park where Billy is frequently spotted, Daisy and John were unable to find him. They plan to inform him about SPY's support as soon as they see him. SPY, known for its comprehensive aid to homeless youth, offers a range of services from basic needs to extensive programming aimed at fostering stability and growth among young people facing homelessness.

Santa Monica College Recap: October 14 Workplace Violence Incident at Center for Media and Design

Santa Monica, October 21, 2024 – The community at Santa Monica College (SMC) continues to process the tragic workplace shooting that occurred on October 14, 2024, at the Center for Media and Design (CMD). The incident resulted in the loss of Custodial Operations Manager Felicia Hudson and the subsequent death of the suspect, SMC custodian Davon Dean. Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) remains the lead investigating agency in the case, which has sent waves of grief and shock throughout the campus.

Following the incident, SMC leadership and police worked in coordination with SMPD to provide timely updates and ensure campus safety. SMPD confirmed that the event was an act of workplace violence, not a random attack. Below is a detailed timeline of the college's immediate response to the shooting and answers to pressing questions raised by the SMC community.

Timeline of Events:

- 9:50 p.m.: Custodial Operations Manager Felicia Hudson was fatally shot by the suspect, SMC custodian Davon Dean, at CMD. Dean fled the scene immediately after the incident.

- 9:53 p.m.: SMCPD was notified by SMPD of the shooting, prompting a full-scale response. Law enforcement from SMCPD, SMPD, and the Santa Monica Fire Department arrived on the scene shortly after.

- 10:01 p.m.: A lockdown of CMD and other campus facilities was initiated.

- 10:21 p.m.: The gunshot victim, Hudson, was transported to Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

- 11:00 p.m.: SMC senior staff convened at SMCPD headquarters for briefings while the investigation continued.

Safety and Support Measures:

In response to the shooting, SMC canceled on-ground classes and moved services online from October 16 to October 20, 2024, allowing time for the community to heal. A candlelight vigil in Hudson’s memory was held on October 17, and a celebration of life followed on October 18 at the Broad Stage.

SMCPD has increased patrols across campuses, and mental health resources, including counseling sessions and wellness events, are being made available for staff and students. Additionally, SMC leadership is reviewing safety protocols and procedures to strengthen security measures.

Community Impact:

As more information emerges from the ongoing investigation, SMC is working closely with the SMPD to ensure transparency while respecting the constraints of the case. The college remains committed to supporting its community during this difficult time.

For more information on the incident and available resources, please visit SMC’s official news page or SMPD’s press release on the case.

Atop the Big Top: Workers Clean Cirque du Soleil Tent Following KOOZA's Opening Weekend

Workers suspended from harnesses cleaned the towering Cirque du Soleil Big Top on Monday, October 21, 2024, following the opening weekend of KOOZA at the Santa Monica Pier. The internationally acclaimed Cirque du Soleil production kicked off this past weekend and will run through January 5, 2025, with its iconic white Big Top already a fixture on the Pier. KOOZA brings a stunning blend of traditional circus performances, featuring slapstick comedy and breathtaking acrobatics. From the High Wire to the thrilling Wheel of Death, the show offers an unforgettable experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Santa Monica, with its long history of hosting Cirque du Soleil since 1987, now welcomes KOOZA’s return, adding another exciting chapter to the city's cultural landscape. A must-see event for both locals and visitors alike.

SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery Addresses the College Community

Santa Monica College Superintendent and President, Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery, addressed the college community following a tragic incident of workplace violence that occurred on October 14 at the Center for Media and Design. The act resulted in the death of the college’s custodial manager, Felicia Hudson.

"Our hearts are with Felicia's family and her loved ones," Dr. Jeffery said in her address. She noted that in response to the tragedy, the college has provided counseling services to help personnel and colleagues cope with the shock and grief from the incident.

Dr. Jeffery expressed gratitude to law enforcement, including the Santa Monica Police Department, the Santa Monica College Police Department, and other first responders, for their swift and ongoing support. She acknowledged the emotional toll this event has taken on the college community, noting that everyone is reacting in different ways.

"Santa Monica College has endured much over its nearly 100-year history," Dr. Jeffery said, assuring that the college community would navigate this difficult time together. "We are going to get through this, and our thoughts and prayers are with Felicia’s family during this difficult time."

Santa Monica’s Coastal Bike Trail Bustles with Activity Amid Stunning October Weather

On a beautiful, sunny Sunday, with temperatures in the mid-70s, Santa Monica Closeup's photojournalist Fabian took to the famous Santa Monica Beach Bike Path, also known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, on October 20, 2024.

In a lively scene, cyclists and pedestrians filled the trail, enjoying the scenic route with the iconic Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel in the background. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, a beloved 22-mile paved route, runs along the Santa Monica Bay shoreline, extending from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance County Beach. It remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering breathtaking views and a quintessential Southern California experience.