Saturday, October 19, 2024

Artist Eder Champions Community Clean-Up and Accountability at Venice Beach

On a bright Saturday morning, Santa Monica Closeup had the pleasure of sitting down with the multifaceted artist and musician Eder at Venice Beach. The setting was none other than our picturesque beach, where Eder shared his thoughts on environmental responsibility and the artist's role in community engagement.

"Welcome to our joint effort," Eder began, pointing out the unattended palm tree branches scattered around the beach. "It seems some people have started picking up these branches after seeing my work here. I'm all about filling in gaps where they exist," he explained, emphasizing his proactive approach to keeping public spaces clean.

Eder, who describes himself as an artist capable of creating music and building structures, expresses a strong connection to his surroundings. "I've established my headquarters here, right on public property," he said with a smile, indicating his commitment to community betterment. He highlighted his efforts to maintain cleanliness, even when local authorities have not addressed fallen debris.

The discussion soon turned to the broader implications of his actions. "This is my art piece. I'm calling it 'Let's All Be Accountable.' It's about demonstrating that if I’m held accountable for enjoying a day at the beach, then why aren't the authorities held accountable for their actions?" Eder questioned, challenging the status quo.

He also shared a personal story of how he had been affected by local enforcement policies. "They took everything from me – started with a tent, which wasn't really a tent but a canopy. Then, all I had left was a blanket, some food, and my ideas," he recounted, his voice tinged with frustration yet also a sense of determination.

Despite these challenges, Eder remains undeterred. "I'm not just here to talk; I'm here to act. I clean up, I create, and I lead by example. That's the essence of my project here. If they take my setup, then they're just doing the job I started – keeping our beach beautiful," he concluded, inviting everyone to join him in this endeavor.

As the interview wrapped up, Eder stood barefoot in the sand, a testament to his resilience and commitment. "You can take my shoes, but you can't take my spirit. I'm here to show that through positive action, we can all contribute to a better, cleaner, and more accountable community," he said, his gaze sweeping across the beach he loves so dearly.

Stay tuned to Santa Monica Closeup for more real stories from our vibrant community.

Back on the Beach: 14-Year-Old Runaway Billy Returns to Venice and Eludes Police

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, Billy, a 14-year-old runaway previously taken into custody by the Los Angeles Police Department on October 14, managed to escape just 24 hours after being detained. He was spotted back at Venice Beach, near the skate park by local residents John Allgood and Daisy.

Upon seeing Billy, John Allgood, aware of the legal repercussions of harboring a runaway, promptly informed the police of Billy's presence. This development distressed Billy, who then planned to leave the area to avoid recapture. However, before he could depart, the police arrived at the scene. At the time, Billy was still at Daisy's Healing Arts Temple at Venice Beach but fled upon their arrival.

John Allgood and Daisy engaged with the police to discuss the situation. The police, who have juvenile detectives working on the case and are coordinating with social workers, advised John and Daisy to call 911 if they see Billy again. The approach aims to handle the case with sensitivity, focusing on the welfare of the young runaway while maintaining legal protocols.

United for Hope: Santa Monica Mounted Police Escort ‘Out of the Darkness’ Walk for Suicide Prevention

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Santa Monica Mounted Police Officers played a vital role in escorting participants of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) "Out of the Darkness Community Walk" through Palisades Park. The event drew hundreds of supporters, united in their shared mission to raise awareness and combat suicide.

The "Out of the Darkness" walks, now a fixture in cities across the U.S., have become a symbol of hope, promoting conversations about mental health and reducing stigma around suicide. Since its inception in 2004, the movement has empowered individuals to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Families, friends, and colleagues walked side-by-side, honoring those lost to suicide while supporting one another in their journeys toward healing and mental well-being.

AFSP remains at the forefront of suicide prevention efforts nationwide, focusing on public education, research, and advocacy. Their mission is clear: to create a world where mental health is better understood, and suicide is no longer a silent epidemic. These community walks serve as a platform for individuals affected by suicide to come together, raise awareness, and offer support. The hashtag #TogetherToFightSuicide has become a powerful rallying cry for participants, symbolizing the collective effort to address this pressing public health issue.

Through grassroots programs, fundraising for research, and community outreach, AFSP connects people from all walks of life, including those personally impacted by suicide, mental health professionals, educators, and leaders, creating a united front in the fight against suicide.

Fourteen-Year-Old Runaway Reveals Life on the Streets Just Days Before LAPD Custody

IIn a poignant interview posted today on the popular YouTube channel Soft White Underbelly, 14-year-old runaway Billy shared his harrowing journey to the streets. The interview comes just days before his custody by LAPD on October 14, 2024, as documented on Santa Monica Closeup. Born in Inglewood, California, Billy’s life was fraught with instability and trauma from a young age, moving frequently due to family issues until settling in Lancaster. His early childhood was marked by abuse and addiction within his family, leading to him being placed under the care of his aunt.


Billy detailed his experiences of living under his aunt's guardianship for a decade, a period that provided stability despite ongoing personal struggles. From habitual running away beginning at age seven to engaging in petty theft and fighting to protect his siblings, his actions reflected a tumultuous upbringing. His narrative took a darker turn as he recounted a severe incident of violence involving his sister, which resulted in police intervention and his subsequent detention in juvenile hall.

Describing his life as a series of escape attempts from various caregivers and group homes, Billy’s story is a stark reminder of the failings of the child welfare system to provide stable, supportive environments for vulnerable youth. His journey through homelessness introduced him to a community of skaters and eventually led him to Venice Beach, where he met Daisy, a local healer who took him under her wing. Daisy plans to support Billy through an emancipation process, aiming to provide him a semblance of stability and control over his life.

Throughout the interview, Billy expressed a mixture of resilience and resignation to the hardships he’s faced, revealing a deep-seated desire for normalcy and a chance at a better future. His story underscores the critical challenges faced by runaways and the importance of supportive community networks that can offer more than just temporary shelter, but a chance to heal and rebuild.

Friday, October 18, 2024

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.

Thursday, October 17, 2024

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.