Arrests, Calls For Service In Santa Monica Up Sharply During First 6 Weeks of Year, Data Show

SANTA MONICA, CA -- During the first six weeks of 2026, arrests by Santa Monica Police were up a whopping 71% compared to the same period last year, police-compiled data show. Additionally, calls for service were up by double digits.

This is according to the latest edition "The Blue Report," a periodic Santa Monica Police Department compilation of crime statistics. The new report was released Feb. 26.

"Year-to-date, Calls for Service total 16,415, reflecting an 18% increase compared to the same period last year," the report states. "Arrests are also significantly higher, up 71% year-to-date. The Department has made 636 arrests so far this year, compared to 371 during the same timeframe in 2025."

According to the Police Department, a major reason for the increased arrests is that it has engaged in "proactive enforcement" as part of patrols in downtown, the beach and pier areas, neighborhood parks, and high-traffic corridors.

"These efforts focused on violent crime suppression, narcotics enforcement, traffic safety, and quality-of-life concerns," the SMPD said in its report.

The latest data compilation, which also includes information about homeless response, traffic enforcement, and other police matters, can be viewed on the City of Santa Monica's website.