Los Angeles News

Plants, Power, and Accountability: What the Palisades Fire Really Exposed

The catastrophic Palisades Fire was not just the result of wind, drought, or climate change. Newly surfaced documents and litigation records raise troubling questions about California’s wildfire policies, empty reservoirs, and environmental rules that may have delayed aggressive suppression—turning a small, contained blaze into one of the most destructive urban fires in state history.

Steve Hilton Puts Spotlight on Child Sex Trafficking as 2026 Governor’s Race Heats Up

In California’s 2026 gubernatorial race, Republican candidate Steve Hilton highlights child sex trafficking, focusing on Los Angeles’ Figueroa Street. He critiques Democratic leadership for lax policies, particularly Senate Bill 357, and proposes aggressive reforms. Hilton’s campaign aims to raise awareness and challenge current leaders on child protection effectiveness, underscoring the urgency of the issue.

When Courts Release the Manual but Not the Map

The article discusses the implications of California Rule 10.500 for public access to court records, particularly in the case of People v. Smiel. It highlights how the Los Angeles Superior Court’s transparency efforts, while disclosing training materials, still restrict structural access. This raises questions about the necessary level of transparency in digital justice systems.

When Allegations Outlive the Case

The article explores the complexities of unresolved criminal allegations within California’s court system, particularly in the context of the ongoing case against Giselle Smiel, who faces felony charges. It highlights the challenges of dismissals and protective orders that, while indicating institutional concern, lack definitive adjudicated findings, raising questions about fairness and transparency in legal processes.

LA District Attorney Records Show Investigators Authorized to Wear “POLICE” Uniforms — With No Training or Oversight on Public Confusion

Public records show Los Angeles County District Attorney investigators are authorized to wear uniforms labeled “POLICE,” even as the agency confirms it has no written training, audits, or oversight addressing whether such attire could mislead the public. The disclosures raise new questions about transparency, authority, and due process in sensitive child-related investigations.

FBI Foils Alleged New Year’s Eve Bomb Plot in Southern California, Exposing Far-Left Extremism Threat

Federal authorities say a coordinated New Year’s Eve bombing plot targeting Southern California was stopped just weeks before it could be carried out. Four Los Angeles–area suspects with alleged far-left extremist ties were arrested while assembling explosive devices in the desert, according to the FBI and Justice Department. Officials say the case highlights an often-overlooked…

UPDATE: Hollywood Icon Rob Reiner and Wife Found Dead in Brentwood Home; LAPD Investigating Apparent Homicide; Son Named as Person of Interest

Hollywood icon Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead inside their Brentwood home Sunday afternoon in what police are investigating as an apparent homicide. LAPD’s Robbery-Homicide Division is leading the probe as the entertainment world reels from the sudden loss of one of its most influential figures.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 14, 2025

The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) has acknowledged that it lacks written policies governing criminal affidavits and the authority of District Attorney Investigators. This absence raises significant concerns about legal standards, due process, and accountability in law enforcement, affecting both the public and defense processes within the county.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — December 14, 2025

On October 6, 2025, the Los Angeles Superior Court held a significant hearing in the case of People v. Giselle Farias Smiel without public access or proper notification. Advocates, including ADA support personnel, were excluded. This breach of transparency undermines First and Sixth Amendment rights, as well as ADA Title II protections, raising serious legal…

The Public Has a Right to Know Whether Government Agencies Followed the Law Before Taking Someone’s Freedom.

Los Angeles and San Diego officials are under scrutiny for withholding public records related to the prosecution of Giselle Smiel, raising concerns over transparency and due process. Taxpayer-funded agencies are stalling information requests, undermining public trust in the justice system by obscuring the facts surrounding an arrest that severely impacts a citizen’s freedom.

LASD Expands Body-Worn Cameras in County Jails — But Santa Clarita’s Pitchess Facility Will Wait Until 2026

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced an expansion of body-worn cameras in the county jail system, starting in October 2025. However, the Pitchess Detention Center will not receive these cameras until mid-2026, raising concerns about equitable reform. Critics emphasize that cameras alone won’t address deeper systemic issues, and transparency remains vital.

Los Angeles County’s Budget Crisis: What They Don’t Want Residents to Notice

Los Angeles County claims financial stability, but the reality is a looming crisis fueled by rising homelessness costs, unsustainable labor expenses, and a dwindling tax base. Despite spending billions with little improvement, officials downplay deficits. Taxpayers may face new taxes, service cuts, and worsening conditions without accountability or transparency.