Serial Hate Crime Offender Convicted: 23-Year Sentence for Unprovoked Assaults in Santa Monica

Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) officers responded to two alarming incidents of assault with a deadly weapon that resulted in the conviction of 37-year-old Kevin Mumin of Los Angeles, currently homeless. The incidents occurred within days of each other in August 2023, with one taking place on Main Street and the other in Palisades Park.

The first assault, reported on August 20, 2023, involved a Hispanic male victim who suffered significant head injuries after being struck from behind with a wooden stick. Surveillance footage helped in documenting the unprovoked attack. Just two days later, another Hispanic male, a City of Santa Monica Maintenance employee, narrowly escaped injury when Mumin attempted to strike him with a glass bottle in Palisades Park.

SMPD detectives connected these attacks to Mumin, who was also identified in a Los Angeles Police Department bulletin for hate crimes specifically targeting Hispanics. Mumin was apprehended by LAPD on August 23, 2023, under multiple felony assault charges with hate crime allegations.

In a recent trial, Mumin was found guilty of three counts of Assault with a Deadly Weapon with enhancements for Great Bodily Injury and Hate Crime, along with a separate felony sexual battery charge from an incident in Los Angeles. On August 21, 2024, he was sentenced to 23 years and 8 months in state prison.

Mumin's criminal history includes convictions for robbery, assault, burglary, and narcotics sales among other offenses. SMPD and LAPD worked jointly on this case, showcasing the impact of inter-departmental cooperation in addressing hate-related crimes.

For further details or to share information related to these incidents, contact Det. Brian Spencer at (310) 458-8420 or Sgt. Shaun Cooney at (310) 458-8436. Media inquiries can be directed to Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at Erika.aklufi@santamonica.gov.

 

Santa Monica Beach Incident: Police Arrest Suspect Following Sexual Battery Report

On August 27, 2024, an urgent situation unfolded on the sands of Santa Monica Beach when LA County Lifeguards alerted a nearby police officer to a reported sexual battery in the 1300 block. According to the victim, the incident occurred around 1:30 PM while she was sunbathing. She described a harrowing encounter where an unidentified male abruptly climbed on top of her, initiating unwanted physical contact. The victim’s swift response, aided by her sister, allowed them to fend off the assailant who then fled southbound along the beach.

Authorities, aided by descriptions from the victim and her sister, apprehended the suspect a short distance from the scene. The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Alonzo Dickson, reportedly homeless, was arrested and charged with felony sexual battery with restraint (243.3 PC). Dickson, who has no prior arrests in California but a pending criminal case in Washington State, is currently held in custody as further investigations are underway.

The Santa Monica Police Department urges anyone with additional information about this incident or the suspect to contact Detective Nicole Murphy at Nicole.Murphy@santamonica.gov or the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427. All media inquiries should be directed to Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at Erika.Aklufi@santamonica.gov.

Homelessness and Faith: Man Found Sleeping on Rose Avenue in Venice Displays Biblical Message

A homeless man was found sleeping on the sidewalk of Rose Avenue in Venice on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Next to him, a sign prominently displayed the message, "JESUS THE WAY THE TRUTH THE LIFE JOHN 14:6." The sign references a verse from the Bible where Jesus declares, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.”

This scene highlights the ongoing struggles of the homeless community in Venice, juxtaposing a message of faith with the stark realities of life on the streets. Rose Avenue, a street known for its eclectic mix of trendy establishments and visible homelessness, continues to reflect the complex social issues facing the area.

Efforts to address homelessness in Venice have included various outreach programs, yet the visible presence of those without shelter serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges. The man’s choice to display a religious message suggests a personal connection to faith in the face of adversity, offering a poignant commentary on the human condition amid the urban landscape.

 

Sky-High Healing: Daisy and John Allgood Elevate Spirits with Aerial Yoga at Venice Beach

On Tuesday, August 27, 2027, Daisy, known as the Venice Healer, hosted a unique aerial yoga session at her healing arts dojo on Venice Beach. The session, which included John Allgood and the Reverend White, was not just about physical wellness but also incorporated elements of hypnosis and spiritual dialogue.

The day's activities kicked off with Daisy teaching John Allgood the intricacies of aerial yoga, emphasizing the importance of balance, trust, and proper technique. As they maneuvered through the yoga poses, Daisy guided them on how to enhance their stretches using the body's natural forces.

Post-yoga, the session transitioned into a more spiritual and reflective phase. Daisy attempted to hypnotize Reverend White, aiming to instill a sense of deep relaxation and openness. John Allgood also participated in this hypnotic exercise, both administering and receiving the hypnotic suggestions. The interactions were lighthearted yet profound, touching on personal growth, spiritual awakening, and the power of silence and reflection.

The conversations also veered towards community service and personal responsibilities. Daisy spoke about a food drive initiative, sharing frustrations and anecdotes about the challenges she faced, including a van donated for the cause that was mishandled. The discourse highlighted her commitment to helping those in need, despite the obstacles.

Reverend White shared his thoughts on the importance of maintaining a calm and focused demeanor when serving the community, especially when distributing food and sharing the word of God. His reflections were introspective, emphasizing the need to prioritize the welfare of others over personal beliefs or actions.

The session encapsulated a blend of physical wellness practices with deeper spiritual and community-focused discussions. Daisy and John's efforts to bring peace and healing to themselves and their community were evident, showcasing their dedication to bettering the environment around them on Venice Beach.

 

Relationship Update: Daisy Tells All in Exclusive Heart-to-Heart

On Monday, August 26, 2024, in a candid interview with Santa Monica Closeup, Daisy the Venice Healer and her former boyfriend John Allgood shared insights into the current state of their relationship, emphasizing a continued deep connection despite the end of their romantic involvement.

John Allgood expressed his sentiments about their past and what remains of their bond. "Daisy and I are still like best friends, doing fun stuff, outreach—all those fun things," John stated. He detailed their past relationship dynamics, highlighting Daisy's suggestion to open their relationship, which he initially misunderstood. "I didn’t offer to bring in women; I said let’s open—like, go ahead and date other women if you want," Daisy clarified during the discussion.

The conversation also delved into personal growth and future aspirations. Daisy discussed her commitment to celibacy over the summer to focus on personal and community projects. "I’m trying to do this, be celibate over the summer, liberate Venice," she explained, signaling a shift towards more community-oriented goals.

John reflected on the unique dynamics of their relationship, emphasizing the unconventional but profound connection they shared. "It's like you go find your own; it’s raining men in my world. I assume any guy that I’m with is very desirable and amazing," Daisy commented on the open nature of their past romantic setup.

As they navigate their new platonic relationship, both expressed a strong desire to support each other's personal journeys. "We're wanting different things, and I support what he wants, and he supports what I want," Daisy mentioned, outlining the mutual respect that defines their current relationship.

The interview underscored their ongoing friendship and mutual admiration, with both parties looking forward to continuing their individual paths while cherishing the bond they have maintained

Firefighters Extinguish Dumpster Fire in Venice Beach

Los Angeles firefighters swiftly responded to a trash dumpster fire at Venice Beach on Monday, August 26, 2024, bringing the blaze under control before it could spread. The fire, which ignited in the late afternoon, sent plumes of smoke billowing above the popular beachfront, drawing the attention of both locals and tourists.

The exact cause of the fire is still unknown, but it is widely suspected that it may have been started by a homeless individual, given the pattern of similar incidents in the area. This latest fire is part of a troubling trend, marking the most recent in a string of dumpster blazes that have erupted along Venice Beach in recent weeks.

The frequency of these fires has raised concerns among local residents, who are increasingly alarmed by the potential dangers posed by these incidents. With the area being a heavily trafficked destination, the risk of such fires spreading or causing harm has heightened calls for enhanced safety measures and increased monitoring.

Santa Monica Police Arrest Homeless Woman Following Alleged Assault at Big Dean's Café

On Monday, August 26, 2024, Santa Monica Police responded to an incident at Big Dean's Ocean Front Café. A homeless woman reportedly entered the establishment, grabbed a glass, and threw it at someone inside the café. It is unclear whether the glass was aimed at a patron or an employee, but it missed its target. 

Officers arrived promptly, conducted an investigation, and detained the woman. She was subsequently arrested for assault and transported to jail.

The incident attracted the attention of nearby patrons, though no injuries were reported. The motive behind the act remains unclear. Big Dean's Ocean Front Café, a popular venue along the Santa Monica coastline, resumed normal operations shortly after the situation was resolved.

This arrest underscores ongoing concerns about public safety and the interactions between the homeless population and local businesses. Santa Monica Police continue to monitor and respond to similar incidents as part of their efforts to maintain a safe environment for both residents and visitors.