Armed and Detained: Police Catch Man with Hatchet in Santa Monica

Santa Monica Police Officers responded to an incident involving a man carrying a hatchet while walking on Colorado Avenue on Sunday, June 23, 2024. The officers spotted the man and promptly detained him, confiscating the hatchet. The individual was placed in handcuffs while the officers conducted an investigation and performed a background check.

The man was cited for violating Santa Monica Municipal Code 3.29.020, which prohibits the open carry of weapons such as knives, daggers, and swords in public spaces. The man claimed he found the hatchet in a trash can and was unaware that carrying it was illegal. Officers informed him of the violation and issued the citation.

This incident highlights the city's stringent weapons regulations, which were reinforced by the knife possession ordinance unanimously adopted by the city council in August 2023. This ordinance underscores Santa Monica's commitment to the safety and security of its community members, aiming to enhance the overall wellbeing of residents and visitors by prohibiting the open carry of weapons in public areas.

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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.

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