September 6, 2024 -- Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista issued a candid message to the community Friday in the wake of "a disturbing string of crimes" that have taken place in public spaces over the past few weeks.

In the 1,000-word message, Batista addresses the root causes of the "distressing" incidents that have received widespread media attention and outlines initiatives implemented to combat crime, which include an upcoming high-tech "crime-fighting hub."

"Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed a disturbing string of crimes, particularly sexual assaults occurring in public spaces," Batista writes.

"These incidents have understandably captured the community's attention and alarm. I want to assure you that they are also deeply troubling to me and the police department."

According to Batista, there is no indication that the recent string of crimes, though sometimes similar, "are part of a coordinated effort or linked to organized crime."

"None of the high-profile crimes, including a kidnapping and two attempted kidnappings, were connected. After careful investigation, we determined that these events are unrelated and have no known connection to any criminal networks or actors."

Many of the incidents, however, are linked by "a common thread" that is becoming increasingly apparent -- "the intersection of homelessness, mental illness, and drug use."

"This is not an easy topic to discuss, but it is important," Batista writes. "Over the past several years, our region and city have undergone significant changes, bringing new challenges that we must address together."

The initiatives SMPD has launched or expanded include increasing patrols, "actively recruiting" new officers, "revitalizing" the Neighborhood Watch program and "employing a growing suite of technology solutions."

The latter includes the Department's Drone as a First Responder program, fixed and mobile cameras and Automatic License Plate Readers.

"These advanced tools are part of our strategy to keep our community safe, and in February 2025, our real-time crime center will incorporate all these tools into one crime-fighting hub," Batista writes.

In his message, Batista notes the challenge posed by LA County's zero-bail protocol, which quickly releases those arrested for theft offenses, drug possession and vehicle code violations ("Zero-Bail Protocol to Take Effect," September 13, 2023).

The Department, however, is "finding success in arresting people in possession of drugs who also have significant warrants," Batista writes.

"The warrants allow us to hold people in jail and make a greater difference in the overall effort combating public drug use."

Batista concludes his messages with a call for "the active participation of every resident to help us create a safer environment."

For the full message click here