By Jorge Casuso
June 13, 2025 -- The Santa Monica police force has been placed on tactical alert and is "actively monitoring intelligence sources" in anticipation of Saturday's planned anti-Trump protest in Palisades Park.
In a message Thursday, Police Chief Ramon Batista assured Santa Monica residents, business and property owners that SMPD "is ready and available to respond quickly and decisively, wherever needed."
"We implemented a comprehensive operational plan that prioritizes public safety, safeguards key commercial areas, and ensures the right to peaceful expression is upheld," Batista wrote.
The message comes two days before police expect more than 1,000 demonstrators to descend on the north side of Palisades Park Saturday morning for a rally denouncing President Trump's policies ("Santa Monica Feels Impacts of LA Raids, Riots," June 10,2025).
One of several thousand local protests organized nationwide, the rally will take place shortly after federal immigration enforcement operations triggered protests and rioting in Los Angeles that recalled the violence that gripped Santa Monica five years ago.
"We understand that, especially in light of what our community experienced on May 31, 2020, the prospect of large demonstrations can bring anxiety and uncertainty," Batista said.
"We are fully prepared and committed to protecting our city, its people, and the businesses that are the backbone of our community."
The spree of looting and violence that rocked the city five years ago made Santa Monica a focal point during nationwide protests spurred by the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer ("Santa Monica Demonstration Turns Violent, Looters Ransack Stores," June 1, 2020).
The riots that damaged nearly 300 businesses as the city's police force stood down and prompted the resignation of former police chief Cynthia Renaud will not be repeated, Batista said.
"To be clear: there are no stand-down orders. Our officers are fully committed to protecting life and property and are authorized to act decisively in the interest of public safety."
"You will see a highly visible police presence, including specialized teams such as SWAT, the Mounted Unit, Mobile Field Force, and drones, along with support from various local law enforcement partners," Batista wrote.
"Resources will be deployed across the city, including downtown and all commercial districts, not just at the protest site."
In 2020, SMPD was caught off guard by organized looters using social media who took the freeway into the Downtown ("EXCLUSIVE REPORT -- Santa Monica Police Could Have Prevented Looting Spree, Former Top Officials Say," June 10, 2020).
For Saturday's protest, SMPD is "actively monitoring intelligence sources and social media for indicators of potential criminal activity" and deploying officers to "the city’s ingress/egress points" who are "ready to close traffic access if necessary."
"We will have the capacity to respond rapidly and effectively to any incidents that may arise," Batista wrote.
The city’s Emergency Operations Center will be open and staffed with personnel from several city departments, including Police and Fire, the Chief said.
"Since 2020, we have safely managed over 100 public demonstrations, including those involving opposing groups and complex logistical challenges," Batista wrote.
"We will continue to uphold First Amendment rights while taking swift action against any acts of violence, vandalism, or disruption; criminal activity will not be tolerated," Batista added.
"We acknowledge that the trauma from 2020 continues to affect many. Our promise to you is that we have learned from that experience and refined our approach accordingly."
