Deputies Open Fire on Suspect in West Hollywood, Triggering Street Closures
Burbank Mayor Faces Backlash Over Playful Video, Cites Critics Anti-LGBTQ+ Bias
Suspect Shot by LASD
in West Hollywood Domestic Violence Response
Mayor Konstantine Anthony Defends Actions Amid Controversy Over Video
Authorities are investigating a shooting that occurred Saturday evening in West Hollywood, leaving a man hospitalized and prompting significant road closures in the area.
By Dolores Quintana
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to a domestic violence call around 5:30 p.m. at the West Hollywood Gateway shopping center near the intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and La Brea Avenue. Within half an hour of arriving,
Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony is facing criticism from conservatives following the circulation of a video showing him being spanked by a drag queen during an event on the weekend of September 10. Anthony has responded that some of his critics are motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ bias and that the incident was harmless.
In the video, posted by the Wisenuts podcast, Mayor Anthony is seen being spanked by a drag artist, backed by the Village People’s “Macho Man.” Anthony described the events as “shenanigans” and emphasized that it was
“Neighbor From Hell” Tried to Re-Enter His Apartment and Damaged Property
World Premiere of Documentary Was Screened After 20-Minute Delay
all in good fun. He went on to reveal that a secretly recorded video was made during the event and subsequently shared with a prominent hate group.
deputies encountered a male suspect and shot the man. The shooting took place around 5:57 p.m. on the 7100 block of Santa Monica Boulevard, near the West Hollywood Gateway shopping mall.
In a post on his Instagram account, Anthony stated, “For several days, extremist right-wing organizations, including Fox News, have spread misleading information to fuel fear, discrimination, and hate. I will always be a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers.”
The suspect, described as an adult male, was taken to a nearby hospital, where he is listed in stable condition. Authorities have not disclosed what led to the use of force.
No deputies were injured during the incident. Officers from the LAPD’s Hollywood Division were dispatched to assist with securing the scene.
As of Saturday evening, Santa Monica Boulevard and La Brea Avenue remained closed in both directions, from Sycamore to Formosa, while investigators from LASD continued to process the scene and gather evidence. The Sheriff’s Department has not released additional details.
He added, “On a busy Saturday filled with various independent gatherings, I attended the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats’ private fundraiser for their organization. Notably, there were no officially endorsed candidates or state and federal political figures present. The event was open to young adults ages 15 and above. However, there were no attendees below 18. Additionally, no children were present.”
While not specifying the particular hate group in question, it is possible that Anthony was referring to the Twitter account, now known as X, called “Libs of TikTok,” which
hate speech that I have ever seen.” Anthony encouraged those with concerns about his actions to communicate with him directly via email at kanthony@burbankca. gov. He stated, “If you want to talk to me about what happened over the weekend, send me an email. Send me an email. I will talk to
you about it. There is no reason to involve all of the other people who were not at a public event, not at a government-sponsored event. It
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats voiced their support for Mayor Anthony and strongly denounced the sensationalized and inaccurate portrayal of their event for political purposes that promoted fear, homophobia, transphobia, and bigotry. The Democrats reaffirmed their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers, refusing to engage with what they referred to as “fake outrage.”
West Hollywood Resident Returns, Vandalizes Property, 30 Minutes After Eviction
Valentino Lopez, a 41 year old, male Hispanic, was identified as a resident in an apartment complex on the 1200 block of N. Fairfax Avenue located in the City of West Hollywood who had vandalized his apartment and continuously caused a public nuisance in the apartment complex. This is the man we reported on earlier this month, who neighbors referred to as the “neighbor from Hell.” Several residents of the apartment complex feared that he would never leave.
By Dolores Quintana
On Wednesday, March 26th, 2025, deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Civil Management Unit conducted a lockout at the location after an Eviction process. Approximately 30 minutes later, Valentino Lopez returned to the location, attempted to re-enter his former unit, and vandalized the property. Deputies from the West Hollywood Station arrested him.
measures remained in place during this time, and the screening commenced with a slight delay. To our knowledge, this was a general threat and not directed at the film or the
On Friday, March 28th, 2025, The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Los Angeles Airport Branch, filed two counts of Felony Vandalism and Misdemeanor Public Nuisance charges against Valentino Lopez. Lopez remains in custody at this time.
We continue to encourage members of our community to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. If you notice
The premiere of “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) faced a momentary setback on Saturday night due to a bomb threat. Judy Lung, TIFF’s Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, confirmed to CTV News Toronto via a written statement that the festival was alerted to an investigation “in the vicinity of the red carpet” at Roy Thomson Hall, where the documentary was set to be screened.
anything out of the ordinary, please do not hesitate to contact the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station at (310) 855-8850. Your vigilance is a vital part of our operations. Remember, our guiding principle is “‘If you see something, say something.” Together, we can enhance the safety and security of our neighborhoods.
For any additional information, please contact Detective Zeff at the West
Hollywood Station at 310-358-4033. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call "Crime Stoppers" by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google Play or the Apple App Store, or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org
‘Cell Phone Theft Capital’? West Hollywood Struggles with Pickpocketing Spike
Pickpocketing Surges in West Hollywood’s Rainbow District
The West Hollywood Sheriff’s Department has reported a sharp increase in pickpocket thefts in the city’s bustling Rainbow District, according to an update presented to the West Hollywood City Council on Monday.
The number of reported thefts surged from eight cases in January to 24 in February, raising concerns among city officials and law enforcement about the growing trend.
"We're thankful that the city is able to fund us and have what’s called an Entertainment Policing Team," LASD Sgt. Jason Duron told KTLA News. "It’s a team of deputies and a sergeant who work in our Rainbow District, which is the area where all the robust clubs and bars are. That team deals with all our bars and clubs, and education is the biggest thing they do out there. They try to educate the public and the bar community, managers, and security officers of the problem."
West Hollywood’s Rainbow District, home to some of the city’s most popular LGBTQ+ bars and nightlife spots, is a known attraction for both locals and
tourists. However, law enforcement officials note that crowded clubs, intoxicated patrons, and general distractions make the area a prime target for thieves.
"It’s becoming really ridiculous to the point where, to visitors from around the world, West Hollywood is being known as the cell phone theft capital of the world," said Adam Eramian, Chair of West Hollywood’s Public Safety Commission.
Authorities are urging visitors and residents to stay alert, secure their belongings, and remain aware of their surroundings while enjoying the nightlife.
Coming Soon: Easter Extravaganza at Regent Santa Monica Beach
Book your Delectable Brunch, Easter Festivities
This Easter, step into a world of celebration and refined delight at Regent Santa Monica Beach.
Known for its perfect Santa Monica getaways, Regent Santa Monica Beach is a luxury resort, where the vibrant pulse of the City of Angels meets the Pacific Ocean. This beachfront oasis invites you to join its Easter festivities coming soon featuring a brunch inspired
by the flavors of California’s coast.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 20, Regent Santa Monica Beach is hosting Easter Extravaganza & Brunch, where the elegance of the Jacaranda Ballroom meets the fresh, sunlit beauty of the Pacific Garden. Begin with an exquisite brunch experience, where flavors are crafted to indulge and inspire.
Then, let the festivities unfold — children will revel in the magic of an Easter egg hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself, while adults relax with live music and savor unlimited
mimosas
With sweeping ocean views and a spirit of joy in the air, this is Easter reimagined for children and adults — elevated, effortless and truly unforgettable.
Pricing is $180 per adult inclusive of unlimited mimosas, $85 for children under 12. Children 3 years old and under are complimentary.
Regent Santa Monica Beach is located at 1700 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. For more information on the hotel and amenities, visit SantaMonica. RegentHotels.com.
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You will receive financial compensation of $600 for participation in addition to parking costs. You will receive neuropsychological testing results and a picture of your brain!
For more information, please contact the Suthana Lab at UCLA tmsmemorystudy@mednet.ucla.edu or (310) 210-6978
Family Sues City of Los Angeles After LAPD Kills Transgender Woman in Pacoima Motel
Fatal LAPD Shooting of Trans Woman Triggers Lawsuit, Community Outcry
A civil rights lawsuit has been filed against the city of Los Angeles by the family of a transgender woman fatally shot by Los Angeles Police Department officers, alleging that the shooting was unjustified and unlawful.
The lawsuit stems from the death of 30-year-old Linda Becerra Moran, who was shot by LAPD officers at a Pacoima motel and succumbed to her injuries 20 days later. Moran’s family, along with their legal representatives, contend that body camera footage from the scene contradicts the police narrative and proves that officers acted unlawfully.
Denisse Gastélum, the attorney representing Moran’s family, called the shooting a "cold-blooded killing" and is urging the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office to intervene.
“The officers were called to help her, not kill her,” Gastélum said. "She told them, under no uncertain terms, 'I don't feel too good. I feel a bit suicidal. I want to harm myself.' She grabbed a knife,
but at no point did she ever threaten the officers."
Moran’s family and legal team argue that she was experiencing a mental health crisis and should have been met with de-escalation tactics rather than deadly force.
The LAPD responded to reports of a possible kidnapping suspect on Feb. 7 in the 10000 block of San Fernando Road.
According to police, Moran herself had called 911, claiming she was being held against her will.
Upon arrival, officers encountered Moran, who they say became "agitated" and armed herself with a knife.
Police officials stated that she refused commands to drop the weapon, which led to officers opening fire.
However, Gastélum and the family dispute that claim, asserting that Moran was a victim of sex trafficking who had called for help. The lawsuit alleges that officers escalated the situation instead of responding with care and appropriate intervention.
The case has outraged LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, who argue that transgender individuals, especially those in crisis, are disproportionately subjected to police violence.
The lawsuit, filed against the city of
Los Angeles and the LAPD, seeks justice for Moran’s death and accountability from the officers involved. The family is demanding an independent investigation and for the district attorney to take action against those responsible.
"The city cannot continue to allow these kinds of killings to happen," Gastélum said. "We need accountability, we need justice, and we need real change
in how law enforcement handles mental health crises."
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Force Investigation Division is conducting an internal review of the shooting, and the case is expected to be examined by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office to determine whether officers violated any laws.
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MONICA COLLEGE
SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Dr. Nancy Greenstein, Chair; Dr. Sion Roy, Vice Chair; Dr. Luis Barrera Castañón; Anastasia Foster; Dr. Margaret Quiñones-Perez; Dr. Tom Peters; Rob Rader; Kathryn E. Jeffery, Ph.D., Superintendent/President Santa Monica College | 1900 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405 | smc.edu
Photo by Jonathan Ng