No Stand Down Orders for Santa Monica Police Regarding 'No Kings Day' Demonstrations Should They Turn into Riots

Ramon Batista addresses the City Council about safety concerns for both illegal immigrants and legal residents on June 10

June 12, 2025 - Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista released the following statement regarding concerns about the planned 'No Kings' protest on Saturday. On May 31, 2020, a planned demonstration protesting George Floyd's death turned into several days of intense rioting, looting, fires, and assaults in Santa Monica.

Dear Santa Monica Residents, Business and Property Owners,

I want to thank those of you who have reached out with concerns about the scheduled "No Kings" protest on Saturday, June 14. No Kings is a nationwide day of pro-democracy rallies; ours will occur at Palisades Park (Ocean Ave/Montana) from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 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.

Please know that the Santa Monica Police Department takes your concerns seriously. We are fully prepared and committed to protecting our city, its people, and the businesses that are the backbone of our community. 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.

Joining and supporting me in this message are Interim City Manager Elaine Polachek, Assistant City Manager Susan Cline, Deputy City Manager Christopher Smith, Community Development Director Arminé Chaparyan, and Acting Deputy Chief of Police and Incident Commander Roberto Villegas.

We implemented a comprehensive operational plan that prioritizes public safety, safeguards key commercial areas, and ensures the right to peaceful expression is upheld.

What to Expect:

All sworn personnel have been placed on tactical alert. This means that the full strength of the Santa Monica Police Department is ready and available to respond quickly and decisively, wherever needed.

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.

Resources will be deployed across the city, including downtown and all commercial districts, not just at the protest site.

We are actively monitoring intelligence sources and social media for indicators of potential criminal activity.

SMPD personnel will be present at the city's ingress/egress points and ready to close traffic access if necessary.

We will have the capacity to respond rapidly and effectively to any incidents that may arise.

The city's emergency operations center will be open, hosting several city departments such as Police/Fire

The Wrap

Police protect the pier from rioters and arsonists during the May-June 2020 riots in Santa Monica

Since 2020, we have safely managed over 100 public demonstrations, including those involving opposing groups and complex logistical challenges. 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.

I urge all retailers and property owners to stay vigilant but not fearful. If you are considering private security, that decision is entirely yours. I want to emphasize that SMPD will be present, proactive, and prepared.

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.

Our mission is clear: to keep Santa Monica safe, secure, and peaceful for business owners, residents, and visitors alike. 911 remains your primary Santa Monica emergency number, followed by the SMPD non-emergency number at 310-458-8491

Thank you for your ongoing investment in and support of Santa Monica. We will get through this safely together, stay united, and remain strong.

Your safety is our top priority, and we are standing firmly with you.

Sincerely,

Chief Ramon Batista

Santa Monica Police Department