Police Officers Arrest RV Owner for Stealing Electricity From City During Weekly Venice Cleanup

During a routine homeless encampment cleanup on Thursday, December 19, 2024, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers discovered an electric cable extending from a parked RV on Fourth Street in Venice, unlawfully tapping into city electrical infrastructure on the sidewalk.

Following their investigation, officers arrested the individual residing in the RV for violating California Penal Code (PC) 498(b), which prohibits the theft of utility services. The person was cited and released on-site, meaning they were not transported to jail but instead issued a citation with a promise to appear in court at a later date.

Under California's “cite and release” procedure, law enforcement provides a citation for suspected unlawful conduct without formally booking the accused into custody. The process allows the individual to remain free, provided they sign an agreement to attend a future court hearing.

Understanding Penal Code 498(b)

California PC 498(b) criminalizes the theft of utility services, including electricity, gas, and water. This includes:

• Diverting utility services without payment
• Tampering with utility meters or property
• Making unauthorized utility connections
• Using utility services without consent

Depending on the value of the stolen services and the offender’s criminal history, this violation may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. Consequences can include fines, custody time, and collateral effects such as immigration consequences or the suspension of professional licenses.

The Venice cleanup and subsequent arrest underscore the ongoing challenges posed by utility theft in areas impacted by homelessness.

1,000 Drones Illuminate Santa Monica Sky for ‘Beast Games’ Premiere

The Santa Monica Pier came alive with a dazzling display of light and technology on Thursday night as 1,000 drones lit up the night sky in celebration of the highly anticipated premiere of *Beast Games* on Amazon’s Prime Video. The synchronized drone show captivated onlookers, setting the tone for the record-breaking reality competition series created by YouTube sensation MrBeast. The aerial spectacle was executed by the renowned drone performance troupe, Pixis Drones, whose illustrious career spans over three decades of global entertainment events. Their innovative performance served as the grand opening act for the official launch festivities, held at the iconic Santa Monica Pier. The celebration was a fitting prologue to *Beast Games*, a series that promises to redefine reality competition with its groundbreaking $5 million prize—the largest single prize in the history of television and streaming. Featuring 1,000 contestants and challenges that test physical strength, social strategy, and mental resolve, the series premieres globally on Prime Video on December 19, 2024, streaming in over 240 countries and territories. The mesmerizing drone show not only celebrated the launch of *Beast Games* but also highlighted Santa Monica as a backdrop for some of the most ambitious entertainment events of the year. With its countdown officially complete, the series is poised to make history on the streaming platform.

INVASION OF PRIVACY: Police Arrest Alleged Peeping Tom for Filming in Gender-Neutral Restroom at Pier

On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Santa Monica police arrested a man for allegedly using a recording device to film a woman in a gender-neutral public restroom. Officers responded to a disturbance call and discovered that the individual had been involved in an altercation. Upon investigation, authorities determined the man had violated California Penal Code Section 647(j), which prohibits the unlawful invasion of privacy.

Under PC 647(j), it is illegal to use a device to record or view someone in a private setting without their consent. A conviction for this misdemeanor carries penalties of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

According to the police sergeant, the suspect, who was apprehended at the scene, also had an outstanding $50,000 warrant for a similar offense in another jurisdiction. The incident occurred when the suspect allegedly used a stall to record another person, who noticed the intrusion and reported it to authorities. Officers were able to locate and arrest the suspect before he fled the area.

This case highlights California’s strict enforcement of privacy laws aimed at protecting individuals from "peeping tom" crimes.

METRO UPDATE: Security Enhancements Lead to Noticeable Improvements on Trains

Santa Monica, CA — December 18, 2024. Six months after the last documentation of the Metro system's challenges with unhoused individuals sleeping and camping on trains, noticeable improvements were observed today. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputies and Metro Armed Security have ramped up efforts to address these issues, with a comprehensive daily sweep focused on the downtown Santa Monica Station. As the final stop on the Metro line, the downtown Santa Monica Station is pivotal in ensuring passengers disembark and comply with re-tapping requirements for continued travel. Authorities report that enforcing these measures has helped address concerns of individuals using the train as temporary shelter. The Sheriff’s Deputies and Metro Security teams have adopted a dual role of enforcement and passenger welfare. Their duties include monitoring trains and platforms, addressing fare evasion, and upholding public safety standards. These efforts aim to mitigate criminal activity and provide a secure environment for commuters. The increased law enforcement presence has been part of a broader initiative to restore confidence in the Metro system. By deterring disruptive behavior and ensuring a safer transit experience, officials hope to encourage ridership while addressing concerns related to public safety. Passengers are encouraged to remain alert and report any unsafe situations. In emergencies, they should call 911, while non-emergency concerns can be directed to security personnel at 888.950.7233. Red intercom signs on station platforms also provide a direct line to Metro staff. Today’s improved conditions mark progress in addressing the challenges documented earlier this year, reflecting the continued commitment of Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputies to ensuring safety and security for all Metro passengers.

COUNTDOWN BEGINS: MrBeast’s ‘Beast Games’ Promotion Takes Over Santa Monica Pier

COUNTDOWN BEGINS: MrBeast’s ‘Beast Games’ Promotion Takes Over Santa Monica Pier

An eye-catching installation to promote Beast Games has been activated at the Santa Monica Pier on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. The striking setup features a large glass vault filled with $5 million in faux cash, guarded by masked figures, and a digital countdown timer ticking toward the highly anticipated world premiere.

What You Need to Know:

• Series Release Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
• Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
• Number of Episodes: 10

The reality competition series is created by YouTube sensation Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast. Dubbed the biggest competition show in streaming and television history, Beast Games brings together 1,000 contestants to face physical challenges, social strategy, and mental tests for a groundbreaking $5 million cash prize—the largest single prize ever offered in the medium.

Filmed over a year, the production reportedly shattered 40 world records and is produced by Amazon MGM Studios. Prime Video confirmed the weekly release schedule, starting with the global debut on December 19th, streaming in over 240 countries and territories.

The teaser for Beast Games, shared on X by MrBeast, has already fueled excitement for what promises to be the biggest showdown in reality competition history.

Stay tuned—Santa Monica is now ground zero for the ultimate countdown!

Santa Monica Police Arrest Man for Alleged Nordstrom Theft with Robbery Charge

Santa Monica police arrested a man on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at a Colorado Avenue venue adjacent to Santa Monica Place after he allegedly stole a jacket from Nordstrom. Officers located a suspect matching the description provided by witnesses and detained him for identification. A witness was brought to the scene in a police vehicle and confirmed the suspect as the individual involved in the theft. The suspect was arrested and is expected to be charged with 211 PC, commonly known as Estes Robbery. Under California law, Estes Robbery occurs when theft escalates to robbery due to the use of force or fear to retain stolen property or resist apprehension. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been released about the suspect.

Santa Monica Police Arrest Woman with Warrant After Alleged Vodka Theft Incident

On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, Santa Monica police detained two out-of-state individuals following a theft report at a restaurant on Ocean Avenue. According to authorities, the two allegedly stole a bottle of vodka from the establishment. Officers located the individuals nearby and recovered the stolen bottle. The restaurant declined to press charges, but during the investigation, officers discovered that one of the individuals had a no-bail warrant out of Texas. The woman with the warrant was arrested and taken into custody, while the other individual was released. Police noted that the incident began with a call for service and escalated when the warrant was uncovered. This case highlights the diligence of local officers in addressing theft-related incidents and enforcing outstanding warrants. No further details were provided about the individuals involved.

KITCHEN BLAZE: Firefighters Protect 112-Year-Old Historic Venice Apartment

 

On Monday, December 16, 2024, Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) firefighters swiftly responded to a structure fire in a historic three-story building located at 15 Horizon Avenue in Venice. Built in 1912, the 112-year-old building showcased the resilience of modern safety systems in protecting older structures. According to LAFD Captain Steve Marquez, crews from Station 63, Engine 62, and Battalion 4 arrived on the scene to find a small grease fire on a stove in a second-floor unit. The building’s fire alarm and sprinkler systems activated, containing the fire to a minor scale before firefighters extinguished it. Captain Marquez confirmed that all occupants were safely evacuated, and there were no injuries. Firefighters also shut off the sprinkler system, cleared water from the affected area, and ensured residents could return to their homes. The LAFD praised the building’s safety systems for preventing further damage, highlighting how critical upgrades can safeguard even century-old landmarks in emergency situations.

Santa and Mrs. Claus Bring Holiday Cheer to Santa Monica Pier

On Thursday evening, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus swapped their sleigh for a surfboard as they strolled along the Santa Monica Pier, spreading festive vibes and posing for photos with delighted visitors. Sporting a tropical twist to his iconic outfit, Santa joked about the local surf conditions when asked: “A little flat, but much warmer than in the North Pole!” The Claus couple’s presence lit up the pier, reminding everyone that holiday magic can happen anywhere—even by the beach. Visitors were all smiles as they captured this unique California-style Christmas moment.

Santa Monica Police Arrest Piano Teacher for Alleged Sexual Abuse of Student

Santa Monica, CA (December 12, 2024) - On November 19, 2024, Santa Monica Police Department detectives received a report of suspected child abuse of a 14-year-old by her 41-year-old piano teacher.

Youth and Family Services (YSD) detectives immediately started investigating and learned the piano teacher and student were engaged in sexual activities since July 2024, when the student was 13 years old. The incidents took place at the student's home, the teacher's vehicle, and the teacher's studio, the French Conservatory of Music, in Beverly Hills. 

On December 12, 2024, SMPD Detectives, with the assistance of uniformed and undercover officers, served arrest and search warrants and took the teacher into custody in Encino. The teacher has been identified as Hovanes John Jihanyan of Van Nuys. 

Jihanyan was booked for lewd acts on a minor 13 years or younger, continuous sex abuse of a minor 13 years or younger, sexual assault on a minor 13 years or younger with the perpetrator being 10 years older, possession of child pornography, and sexual exploitation of a minor. The case will be filed with the LA County District Attorney's Office on Monday, December 16, 2024. 

Jihanyan remains in the custody of the Santa Monica Police Department. Jihanyan has no prior criminal history. 

If anyone has additional information about this individual or has been the victim of abuse by this teacher, they are asked to contact Det. Lizette Hardgrave at (310) 458-2256, Sgt. David Haro at (310) 458-8952, or the Watch Commander desk 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.