Tag: The Santa Monica Police Department.

SANTA MONICA—The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) will conduct a Bike & Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation with focused enforcement efforts on primary collision factors involving motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists on Saturday, March 23.

The Police Department identifies locations where pedestrian and bike collisions are prevalent, along with the violations that led to those collisions. Traffic officers will be on duty patrolling areas where bike and pedestrian traffic and collisions occur in an effort to lower deaths and injuries. Officers will be looking for violations committed by drivers, bike riders and pedestrians alike that can lead to life changing injuries. These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield or provide right of way to bicyclists or pedestrians, or failing to stop for signs and signals.

These extra enforcement efforts will take place between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 p.m.

“We all have places to be and not everyone gets there by car. Bicyclists and pedestrians have the same rights to the road but face even more risk without the protections vehicles have. We should all be looking out for one another,” the SMPD states.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

By Trevor

SANTA MONICA—On Monday, February 6, the Santa Monica Pier was evacuated by the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) after reportedly receiving a bomb threat via email.

SMPD posted a warning to the public on their X and Facebook pages promising the public an update when more information is available.

“Attention; for your safety, please avoid the Pier area until further notice. Law enforcement is currently investigating a bomb threat. Your cooperation is crucial in ensuring the safety of everyone in the vicinity.

Please remain vigilant and adhere to any instructions provided by authorities. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding during this situation. Stay safe and stay clear of the Pier until the all-clear is given. Thank you.”

SMPD sent out an SMPD Alert to update the public after determining the Pier was safe.

“Santa Monica Police activity at Pier has ended. The Pier is open to the public. Resume normal activity.”

Bomb threats and what is now referred to as swatting incidents has caused a heavier police presence nationwide.

Swatting refers to a harassment technique most often perpetrated by members of the online gaming community, or cyber activity. Swatting generates an emergency law enforcement response under false pretenses and is illegal.

While some may believe that the threat is only a prank or a hoax, swatting is a federal offense punishable by up to five years prison time.

By Sharon