VENICE BEACH, Calif.—Amid an uptick in both citywide and countywide crime, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Pacific Division is increasing its presence temporarily in Venice Beach as tourists are expected to flock to the beach during the summer months.
Residents in the area say the uptick in crime is largely due to homeless people who are living in encampments and RVs near neighborhoods and are addicted to drugs. Piles of trash and tents can be seen scattered throughout the Venice neighborhood.
A total of 3 sergeants and 20 patrol officers were assigned to the area earlier this month because of a large increase of tourists expected this summer, according to the department. Officers will be undergoing special training and are expected to patrol the beach until October.
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