𝗟𝗔𝗣𝗗 𝗢𝗡 𝗦𝗖𝗘𝗡𝗘: Police Assist During Homeless Encampment Cleanup on Lake Street in Venice

VENICE, CA — Wednesday, July 9, 2025 — A coordinated multi-agency cleanup operation unfolded Wednesday morning on Lake Street in Venice, as part of the City of Los Angeles’ continuing efforts to enhance public safety, sanitation, and accessibility in neighborhoods affected by street encampments.

Crews from the Department of Public Works and Clean Harbors Environmental Services, supported by officers from the Los Angeles Police Department, conducted the operation under the authority of Los Angeles Municipal Code Section 56.11, which governs the storage of personal belongings in public rights-of-way.

The operation encountered resistance when sanitation workers requested that unhoused individuals remove their possessions from the sidewalk adjacent to a white van. When individuals declined to comply, LAPD officers were called in to mediate. After a brief exchange, the individuals cooperated, loading their belongings into the van. Remaining items were removed by cleanup crews, and the operation proceeded without further disruption.

No arrests or citations were issued.

A representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office was present to observe and assist with coordination, underscoring the city’s stated commitment to pairing enforcement actions with social services and outreach efforts.

These ongoing operations reflect the city’s broader objective to maintain clean and safe public spaces while providing unhoused residents with access to resources and potential pathways to housing.

Santa Monica Closeup continues to document the dynamic interface of policy, enforcement, and lived experience across Los Angeles’ Westside.
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#VeniceCleanup #LAPD #HomelessEncampment #PublicSafety #LosAngeles #Homelessness #CleanHarbors
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𝗔𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗖𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗢𝗥
Fabian Lewkowicz is an award-winning photojournalist based in Santa Monica and the creator of 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝘂𝗽. Known for his compelling imagery and neutral reporting, his work captures the pulse of the city—from civic affairs and emergency response to cultural moments and beach life. His photography has been showcased in galleries, museums, and public installations.
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𝗦𝗨𝗣𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧 𝗦𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗔 𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗔 𝗖𝗟𝗢𝗦𝗘𝗨𝗣
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𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗦: Photojournalism, Visual Journalism, Street Reporting, Documentary, Observational Photography, Press Photography, Independent Media, Southern California News, SMCU, SM©U
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