Police Arrest Two Individuals Amidst Homeless Camping at Palisades Park

On Monday, July 17, 2023, Santa Monica Police Officers took action by apprehending two individuals in Palisades Park after responding to a group of homeless individuals engaged in camping activities. The park was marred by a disorderly scene, with various items scattered across the grass, creating an unsightly environment. Determined to restore order, law enforcement personnel swiftly intervened, resulting in the arrest of two individuals. One suspect was taken into custody under suspicion of possessing narcotics, while the other faced charges of suspicion of public intoxication. Meanwhile, the remaining members of the group gathered their belongings and voluntarily vacated the area. Recognizing the importance of maintaining cleanliness, a police officer collaborated with a sanitation worker to clear the remaining trash from the homeless encampment.

This incident sheds light on the ongoing complexity of homelessness, an issue that lacks straightforward solutions. However, the city of Santa Monica remains dedicated to addressing this challenge and providing assistance to those in need. Recent data from the City's 2023 Homeless Count, held in January, revealed that there were 926 individuals experiencing homelessness in Santa Monica, marking a 15 percent increase compared to the 807 individuals counted during the City's 2022 Homeless Count.

To tackle this pressing issue, the city has implemented several measures. Notably, on February 14, 2023, the City Council adopted a Proclamation Declaring a Local Emergency Order on Homelessness. In light of the 2023 Point-in-Time Count results and the increased homelessness rate, city officials will recommend extending the local emergency until May 31, 2024. This extension aims to ensure the continuity and expansion of interventions designed to combat homelessness, providing vital support to individuals in need.
'''''''''''''''''''''''
Fabian Lewkowicz is an award winning Santa Monica-based professional photojournalist and press photographer, and the creator of the photo blog, Santa Monica Close Up. With years of experience as a staff photographer for several media outlets including the Santa Monica Daily Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica Observer, and the Santa Monica Corsair, Fabian has captured some of the most iconic moments of Santa Monica.

Fabian's photographs have been exhibited in a variety of settings, including museums, art galleries, hospitals, department stores, banks, fire stations, police stations, commercial buildings, amusement parks, offices, and homes. His photography captures the essence of Santa Monica, from its beautiful landscapes and stunning sunsets to its unique culture and diverse community.

Support Santa Monica Closeup by making a One Time Donation via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/fabia...

Make a One Time Donation via Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/santamonicacloseup

Follow us on Instagram:   / santamonicacloseup  

Follow us on Facebook:   / santamonicacloseup  

Join this channel to gain access to perks:
   / @santamonicacloseup  

For licensing this video email [email protected]

TAGS: Photojournalism, Photojournalist, Documentary, Cinema Verite, Fly-on-the-wall, Observational Photography, Press Photography

The video is intended solely for personal use. Any form of copying, re-uploading, sampling or other unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

(C) 2023 Fabian Lewkowicz/Santa Monica Closeup. All Rights Reserved.