Cadaver Dogs Deployed as Search Teams Examine Fire-Ravaged Homes on Malibu’s Pacific Coast Highway

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, a multi-agency task force comprising 30 highly traine d members   from Regional Task Force 12 (RTF-12) and their K9 units, including several cadaver dogs, were deployed to Malibu. Their mission: to assist in the aftermath of the devastating fires, focusing on a stretch of homes along the Pacific Coast Highway that were completely destroyed.

RTF-12, an Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team based in Santa Barbara County, specializes in responding to large-scale disasters such as earthquakes, structural collapses, and other incidents requiring heavy rescue equipment. For this deployment, the team included personnel from Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara City, Santa Maria, and Vandenberg Fire Departments, with additional support from the Alhambra City Fire Department.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, scorched over 23,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, and displaced over 100,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. As recovery efforts continue, the work of search and rescue teams is vital for identifying remains, clearing debris, and laying the groundwork for rebuilding.

RTF-12’s deployment showcases the critical role of urban search and rescue teams in post-disaster scenarios. By combining the expertise of firefighters, medical professionals, engineers, and K9 search units, the task force demonstrates the power of coordinated emergency response.

Residents affected by the fire are encouraged to remain patient and stay informed as local, regional, and state teams work tirelessly to restore safety and assist in recovery efforts.

𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗔𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: U.S. EPA Leads Coalition Inspecting Palisades Homes After Devastating Fire

A coalition of environmental experts and specialized organizations, including the U.S. Coast Guard National Strike Force Pacific Strike Team, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), Republic Services Fire Hazmat, and the Los ANgeles Fire Department was seen inspecting homes in Pacific Palisades on Saturday, January 18, 2025. These inspections are part of ongoing recovery efforts following the catastrophic Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, 2025. The wildfire burned over 23,000 acres, caused at least 27 fatalities, and destroyed more than 12,000 structures, displacing over 100,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard National Strike Force Pacific Strike Team (PST), recognized globally for its expertise in hazardous substance response and emergency management, brought its specialized skills to the inspections. Alongside them, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency worked to ensure that environmental and public health risks were minimized, consistent with its mission to protect human health and the environment. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) assessed properties for contamination and toxic hazards, furthering its mission to protect California’s communities and environment from harmful substances. Republic Services Fire Hazmat, a leader in waste management and hazardous material handling, played a key role in ensuring the safe disposal and recycling of fire-impacted debris. Together, these organizations form a collaborative force dedicated to safeguarding public health, restoring the environment, and helping the community rebuild in the aftermath of the disaster. Their efforts highlight the critical importance of specialized expertise and coordinated action during large-scale recovery operations, providing hope and a foundation for resilience for the affected residents.

LAPD Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort to Military Police and Firefighters Amid Palisades Fire Recovery

Amid the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Palisades Fire, a team of Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Therapy Dogs visited firefighters and National Guard Military Police stationed at the recovery staging area at Will Rogers State Beach. The therapy dogs, including Scout, a seasoned black Labrador Retriever, and Sonic, a Mexican hairless breed known as Xoloitzcuintli, brought “tail-wagging therapy” to the front lines. The first responders took a moment to relax, pet the dogs, and capture selfies, experiencing a moment of calm amid the chaos. These therapy dogs are part of the Blue Line Dogs initiative, which is dedicated to recruiting, training, and deploying Therapy Dog teams to support First Responders. Blue Line Dogs’ mission is not only to provide comfort but also to educate First Responders and the public about the importance of Therapy Dog programs in enhancing mental health and wellness. The organization raises funds to support its volunteer dog teams through training classes, public education, and morale merchandise sales. This funding helps procure, train, and maintain therapy dogs, ensuring they are ready to assist those on the front lines. “We listen for the whispers, not just the cries,” said Gil Esant Trius, founder of Blue Line Dogs. The organization’s comprehensive approach includes training handlers in psychological first aid, crisis response, and suicide prevention. This ensures that the teams are well-prepared to address the unique challenges faced by First Responders. Blue Line Dogs also collaborates with First Responder agencies through agreements to provide certified therapy teams. Their efforts extend to mutual aid requests from outside agencies, emphasizing the wide-reaching impact of their mission. The Palisades Fire has scorched over 23,000 acres, leaving Pacific Palisades and surrounding communities grappling with its aftermath. As recovery efforts continue, visits from therapy dogs remind those on the front lines of the importance of mental wellness. For more information or to support Blue Line Dogs, visit Blue Line Dogs L.A.. Donations and morale merchandise sales contribute directly to the training and maintenance of these vital therapy teams.

Police Arrest Suspects Roaming Evacuation Zones: Burglary Tools, Fake Plates, and Drugs Seized

Santa Monica, CA – Over a seven-day period, Santa Monica Police Department officers made more than 40 arrests in the Palisades Fire evacuation zones, with charges ranging from burglary and possession of burglary tools to narcotics violations and outstanding warrants. Below is a brief account of key arrests made during the operation:

January 9, 4:39 PM – 10th Street/Carlyle:

Two individuals, Miguel Angel Dorantes and Dominic Pacheco Magana, were arrested after officers stopped a van without proper license plates. Police found burglary tools, gloves, and a ski mask in the vehicle. Authorities believe the suspects may have been planning residential burglaries.

January 10, 1:00 AM – 4th Street/Alta Ave:

Officers stopped Christensen Alexander Weithorn, who was allegedly carrying a concealed handgun and ammunition in violation of vehicle code regulations.

January 10, 4:20 AM – 4th Street/Alta Ave:

Four individuals—Markhi Toles, Joshua Charles, Fernando Garcia Jr., and Khamari Toles—were arrested after a traffic stop. Officers found key fobs, a key fob programmer, and burglary tools, leading to suspicion of vehicle theft and conspiracy to commit a felony.

January 11, 10:00 PM – 400 Block San Vicente:

Joshua Kaliel Love was arrested after being found in an apartment garage. Police allege he had burglary tools and methamphetamine in his possession.

January 11, 9:00 PM – 100 Block 10th Street:

Adrian Moreno Hernandez, Moises Becerra Garcia, and Carmen Alicia Lopez were detained during a traffic stop. Officers reported finding narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and burglary tools in their vehicle. Hernandez allegedly provided false identification.

January 11, 11:00 PM – Ocean Avenue/San Vicente Boulevard:

Phillip Michael Briones was detained for curfew violation. Police say he was also in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

January 12, 7:20 PM – Lincoln Boulevard/Montana Avenue:

Timyan Exequiel Mujica was arrested after officers discovered he had an outstanding felony warrant for grand theft. A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered over $3,000 in eyeglasses, suspected to be stolen.

January 13, 1:25 AM – 11th Street/San Vicente Boulevard:

Luis Alberto Perez and Tomas Feliciano Mateo were arrested during a traffic stop. Mateo was allegedly driving under the influence, and Perez had an outstanding warrant from Kern County.

Police Chief Batista commended the officers for their vigilance and professionalism, noting that their proactive work significantly reduced crime in the affected neighborhoods. The department, supported by mutual aid partners and the National Guard, continues to enforce curfews and prevent unauthorized access to the evacuation zones.

Residents are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

National Guard Military Police Deployed in Santa Monica to Assist SMPD Amid Palisades Fire Emergency

In response to the ongoing Palisades Fire, the 330th Military Police of the California National Guard have been deployed to Santa Monica to assist the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) in safeguarding the community. The National Guard units are stationed at key traffic control points throughout the city, ensuring emergency vehicles can move without obstruction and that public safety is upheld. SMPD Chief Ramon Batista underscored the importance of this collaboration: “Having the National Guard in our city and working side by side with the men and women of the Santa Monica Police Department should send a strong message to those who would defy evacuation orders to prey on Santa Monicans in this moment of duress. Criminal actions will not be tolerated. Our officers are vigilant, and we are fully prepared to arrest and hold offenders accountable.” The deployment enhances SMPD’s capacity to maintain order during the emergency. Officers are proactively patrolling warning and evacuation zones, working closely with mutual aid partners, and ensuring a swift response to any emerging issues. Residents should be aware that there will be no entry into Pacific Palisades or any Los Angeles evacuation zone through Santa Monica checkpoints. SMPD thanks the community for their cooperation as they navigate this situation together, with safety remaining the top priority.

Santa Monica Issues Nighttime Curfew and Emergency Order as Palisades Fire Escalates

 Palisades Fire Prompts Nighttime Curfew and Local Emergency Order in Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA, Calif. — In response to the escalating impacts of the Palisades Fire, the city of Santa Monica has issued a local emergency order, including a nighttime curfew in mandatory evacuation zones and other critical measures to support emergency efforts.

City Manager David White signed the order late Wednesday, and the Santa Monica City Council is expected to convene a special session within seven days to officially certify it. The curfew will be in effect from sunset to sunrise in areas under a mandatory evacuation order, aiding law enforcement in safeguarding affected neighborhoods.

“The Palisades Fire has placed nearly 2,500 households in Santa Monica under mandatory evacuation orders, with over 8,000 additional households under a voluntary evacuation warning,” said Mayor Lana Negrete. “This emergency order ensures that first responders have the necessary tools to protect residents, manage the crisis, and support eventual recovery.”

Santa Monica Police, along with mutual aid law enforcement agencies, have been actively assisting in evacuations and protecting property throughout the city. “The local emergency order enhances our ability to secure evacuated areas,” said White. “It helps prevent unauthorized individuals from entering these zones, especially those who may seek to exploit the situation.”

Key provisions of the local emergency order include:

• Temporary school relocation: Impacted schools may operate in non-residential zones.
• Parking enforcement suspension: Preferential parking rules are suspended for residents hosting evacuees.
• Price gouging protection: Emergency and recovery goods and services are protected from price gouging.
• Eviction restrictions: Residential tenants providing temporary shelter to evacuees and their pets are shielded from eviction.
• Construction halt: Non-essential construction in evacuation areas is temporarily prohibited, with extended deadlines granted for ongoing projects.

Residents can stay updated on evacuation orders, available services, and recovery resources by visiting SantaMonica.gov.

𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗥𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗠 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗘: Santa Monica Police Fortifies Pier with New High-Tech Barricades

In response to the horrific act of terrorism in New Orleans, the Santa Monica Police Department has increased its security presence across the city and taken proactive steps to ensure public safety.

On January 2, 2024, police officers, in collaboration with Jovani Iraheta, Chief Engineer of Meridian Rapid Defense Group, installed the Archer Beam Gate System at the Santa Monica Pier. This state-of-the-art barricade is designed to enhance public safety by preventing unauthorized vehicles from entering crowded areas, ensuring the protection of pedestrians while slowing vehicles to a safe stop.

In a statement, the Santa Monica Police Department extended their condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and reassured the community of their commitment to safety. Chief Batista emphasized the department’s heightened visible presence in high-traffic areas, continuous monitoring for potential threats, and collaboration with regional and federal law enforcement agencies.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “Public safety takes all of us,” the department noted, highlighting the importance of community cooperation during these times.

Santa Monica remains united in its dedication to maintaining a secure environment for all

Hanukkah’s Grand Finale: Menorah Lighting Brightens Santa Monica Pier on New Year’s Day

On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, the Santa Monica Pier came alive with light and celebration as Rabbi Isaac Levitansky of Chabad in Simcha Monica led the menorah lighting ceremony on the eighth and final night of Hanukkah. The event, organized by the Chabad of Santa Monica, marked the culmination of the Festival of Lights, drawing families and community members together for a moment of unity, reflection, and joy.

The evening began with an energetic welcome, including a message of hope and resilience. Attendees heard an inspiring Hanukkah message originally written by the Lubavitcher Rebbe in 1980, emphasizing the festival's themes of triumph, illumination, and the enduring power of light over darkness. Rabbi Levitansky highlighted the spiritual significance of the eighth night, symbolizing the supernatural and encouraging all to persist in spreading goodness and light in the world.

In addition to the menorah lighting, the celebration featured lively music, dancing, doughnuts, chocolate gelt, and the appearance of the beloved Dreidel Mascot. Attendees were reminded to continue the tradition at home by lighting their own menorahs and performing the mitzvah of spreading light in their households and beyond.

The event was not just a celebration of Hanukkah but a call to action, urging everyone to embrace the holiday's lessons of perseverance and faith. Rabbi Levitansky's message underscored the importance of adding positivity to the world, creating a ripple effect of light and peace for all. A special acknowledgment was given to the Santa Monica Police Department at the event.

As the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, the glowing menorah illuminated the pier, serving as a beacon of hope and unity. Attendees shared in the joy of the occasion, marking the end of Hanukkah with blessings, prayers, and heartfelt wishes for a brighter future. The event concluded with an invitation for all to enjoy doughnuts, take photos by the menorah, and continue the celebration at home.

Happy Hanukkah to all!

Chabad Menorah Parade Lights Up Santa Monica on New Year’s Eve

Santa Monica streets shone brightly on New Year's Eve as the Chabad in Simcha Monica Menorah Parade, led by a motor escort, brought the spirit of Hanukkah to life. The dazzling parade featured menorah-topped vehicles spreading a message of light, hope, and joy across the city.

Organized by the Chabad of Santa Monica, the event served as a meaningful celebration of Hanukkah, or the Festival of Lights, which commemorates the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the rededicated Second Temple. With illuminated menorahs adorning cars and streets, the parade captured the holiday’s essence, emphasizing themes of resilience, unity, and faith.

Families, friends, and community members gathered to witness the spectacle, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate together. Attendees described the event as a touching reminder of shared traditions and the power of community.

The parade, guided safely through Santa Monica by a motor escort, concluded with the menorahs lighting up the streets, symbolizing warmth and brightness during the winter season. Chabad’s dedication to organizing the event was widely appreciated, highlighting the enduring significance of Hanukkah in fostering connections and celebrating faith.

As the lights of the menorahs shone through Santa Monica, they carried a message of hope into the new year: one of perseverance, community, and shared celebration. Happy Hanukkah to all!

Santa Monica Approves SaMo Bridge Program at Civic Auditorium to Address Homelessness and Root Causes of Criminal Behavior

Santa Monica Approves SaMo Bridge Program at Civic Auditorium Amid Resident Concerns

December 20, 2024 – SANTA MONICA, Calif.

The Santa Monica City Council has approved the SaMo Bridge program, a new initiative to address homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health challenges while offering alternatives to incarceration. Set to launch in the spring, the program will be based in a designated portion of the Civic Auditorium’s east parking lot and aims to break cycles of recidivism by providing a pathway to rehabilitation and stability.

Program Overview

At the heart of SaMo Bridge is a 24-hour “respite hub” to be located on the east side of the Civic Auditorium site. The hub will consist of two temporary trailers with onsite security and video monitoring. Individuals referred by law enforcement for low-level infractions—such as violating camping ordinances or loitering—can access meals, showers, and rest in a secure environment.

Once there, participants will meet with case managers to develop a 90-day personalized care plan. The plans are designed to connect individuals with resources such as mental health treatment, substance abuse programs, temporary housing, and assistance with essential documentation like IDs and benefits applications.

Participants can stay at the hub for a maximum of 72 hours, though most are expected to remain for six to 12 hours before being transitioned to appropriate long-term services. If individuals complete their 90-day care plan and remain connected to services, misdemeanor charges may not be filed, providing an incentive for compliance.

Funding and Additional Support

The program is funded through an $8 million grant awarded to the City Attorney’s Office and will operate alongside existing diversion initiatives, including STEP Court and the Alternatives to Incarceration Pre-Filing Diversion Program. Contracts have been awarded to organizations such as Exodus Recovery, Inc., which will manage the program’s day-to-day operations, and WillScot, which will provide the mobile trailers.

Additional services include program evaluation and fiscal audits by Moss Adams and grant consulting by Elizabeth Anderson Consulting. A dedicated analyst will also be hired to oversee data collection and ensure successful grant implementation.

Resident Concerns

While city leaders, including Chief of Police Ramon Batista, highlight the program’s potential to offer individuals a chance at recovery, some residents remain skeptical. Concerns have been raised about the location of the respite hub, with some questioning its proximity to residential neighborhoods and the potential for increased disruption.

Critics have suggested relocating the program to less central areas, such as the Santa Monica Airport, and have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of diversion programs based on past failures. Others have voiced a preference for stricter punitive measures rather than offering rehabilitation alternatives.

City’s Response and Public Engagement

Santa Monica officials emphasize the program’s comprehensive security measures and its focus on reducing crime by addressing its root causes. Housing and Human Services Director Heather Averick described SaMo Bridge as “a vital addition to the city’s toolbox for supporting individuals on their path to treatment and stable housing.”

To address public concerns, the city plans to conduct extensive outreach, including regular community meetings and a local advisory committee. The first public meeting will take place on January 22, 2025, during the Human Services Commission meeting, where residents will have an opportunity to voice their concerns and ask questions.

The city encourages residents to stay informed and participate in discussions as the program moves forward. For additional information, visit the City of Santa Monica’s website.