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From Santa Monica Close Up:
"n Friday, August 2, 2024, a pedestrian's complaint about a man wielding a pickaxe at Santa Monica Beach prompted a swift response from Los Angeles Park Rangers. The incident involved a detailed exchange between the rangers and the homeless man, who was seen swinging the pickaxe and causing alarm among beachgoers.
The park rangers approached the man, inquiring about the pickaxe and explaining the potential danger it posed. The man insisted it was a tool and that he had the right to possess it, saying, "I was testing my strength, making sure I was going to make my shot." The rangers clarified that while tools are permitted for business use, a pickaxe in a public space is considered a deadly weapon. They stated, "You can't do that on the beach. You could do that in a private area, in your home or a backyard."
The man argued that there was no public place where he could use the pickaxe without being disturbed, accusing the rangers of wanting to take it from him. Despite his protests and claims of training for future use, the rangers maintained their stance, emphasizing public safety concerns.
Upon the arrival of Santa Monica Police Officers, the situation was confirmed. The officers reiterated that the man could not have the pickaxe at the beach and the pickaxe was confiscated. The man continued to express his frustration, but no citations were issued during the incident. The pickaxe was placed into the park rangers' vehicle for disposal, ensuring the safety of the beachgoers."
Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.
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