With residents on high alert following assaults at the beach, the Santa Monica Police Department is increasing patrols and preparedness in advance of the July 4 holiday. According to SMPD, the department will utilize a holiday deployment plan from Thursday through Monday.
This includes additional police officers and other department personnel doing high visibility patrols in holiday hot spots like the beach, parks, Pier, and downtown area. SMPD said its parking and traffic enforcement teams are at the ready and will be assisting with traffic control and safety. They will also have a full complement of Downtown Services Officers and patrol officers serving the rest of the city.
The Independence Day Holiday comes after a man was hospitalized last weekend following a fight near the Pier. In that incident five people were arrested. Three were charged with assault with a deadly weapon, one with battery and the last for sexual battery. The week prior, Jawann Dwayne Garnett attacked multiple people on the beach. He has been charged with multiple felonies, including attempted murder and assault with intent to commit rape.
The incidents have made headlines well beyond Santa Monica and prompted calls for more security. Several residents told the Daily Press this week that they were concerned about public safety in the city.
"I walk during the daytime, I won’t at night. It’s because of the safety factor, homeless. Yeah, that’s a problem," said Darlene Camberg.
SMPD said it was prepared for whatever the heat and holiday may bring to town.
"The beach is our crown jewel and the Fourth of July holiday is the ultimate beachside celebration," said Lt. Erika Aklufi. "The SMPD wants to make sure residents and visitors alike can feel comfortable relaxing in the sand and enjoying our awesome ocean views. A combination of the Directed Action Response Team, Homeless Liaison Program Team, Traffic, Public Service Officers and Patrol Officers, in addition to the Downtown Services Unit have been deployed to assist in ensuring a safe holiday weekend."
Aklufi said SMPD always reminds visitors to remain aware of their surroundings — when they’re in large crowds or an unfamiliar place, it’s especially important.
"If you are heading down to our beach this weekend, please pack your patience – there will be traffic — along with your cooler, remembering to leave all alcoholic beverages at home," she said.
All fireworks are illegal in Santa Monica as are several other items and SMPD is asking everyone to leave these things at home:
❌ Fireworks: Fireworks are illegal citywide (including those marked safe & sane). If you are found in possession of fireworks you will be cited or arrested.
❌ Alcohol: Alcohol consumption is not allowed on the beach.
❌ Gas-powered generators.
❌ Amplified music or instruments: Keep it courteous for fellow beachgoers.
❌ Open flames.
❌ Firearms or other weapons.
In addition, SMPD is asking pet owners to take care as the temperatures rise because animals are not allowed on the beach.
• Unleashed dogs: are prohibited. Leashed dogs are allowed on the boardwalk/paved pedestrian path, but not the sand or in the water.
• With summer heat, the pavement can get very hot, burning your dog’s paws.
• Leaving a pet in a hot car is dangerous and illegal. Owners who violate these rules will be cited or arrested and the car may be forced open to remove the animal.
matt@smdp.com
