The Santa Monica Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division executed multiple search warrants across three counties, arresting five suspects and recovering approximately $100,000 in stolen merchandise from an organized retail theft operation.
Santa Monica College will eliminate approximately 70 positions as it faces a projected $16.7 million deficit that could deplete its financial reserves by 2026-27. The cuts come after implementing $8.6 million in budget reductions and amid declining enrollment.
Protesters across the United States staged a nationwide “blackout” strike calling for no work, no school and no shopping to oppose the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement on Friday. Santa
State Sen. Ben Allen of Santa Monica is criticizing federal legislation that would undermine California's truth-in-labeling law for recyclable products, warning it would increase costs for consumers and create more pollution.
A Superior Court judge ruled in favor of Los Angeles County in a lawsuit filed by the City of Calabasas challenging the use of Calabasas Landfill for Palisades Fire debris removal, finding all safety protocols were followed.
Abundant sunshine. High 78F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Today: ☀️ High 79° / Low 56°
Tomorrow: ☀️ High 80° / Low 56°
First Up
Santa Monica's entertainment zone could
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District board reviewed extensive revisions to nine student services policies, updating regulations unchanged since 2009. Changes focus on attendance, work permits, safety transfers, and align with recent California legislation.
The number of people experiencing homelessness in Malibu fell to 44 in 2026, marking the fifth consecutive year of decline. City officials credit their outreach team, which has placed hundreds of people into housing since 2017.
Santa Monica officials are considering expanding the downtown Entertainment Zone, where patrons can carry alcoholic drinks while walking outdoors. The zone could grow from its current three-block area to encompass much of downtown after showing no increase in crime.
SMDP's weekly guide highlights Santa Monica's vibrant scene with DineLA Restaurant Week's final days, the Leonard Cohen tribute at Broadstage, Venice's food-replica workshops, and Grammy events in Los Angeles through February 6.
Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur introduced the Right to Human Customer Service Act requiring large California businesses to provide human customer service within five minutes. The bill aims to end situations where consumers are trapped in automated systems.
Applications are now open for cannabis retailers in Santa Monica with a first-come, first-served process. The program includes a social equity component and a 4% cannabis business tax that was approved by 66% of Santa Monica voters in 2022.
