Full Breakdown
Heated Exchange Over Crime in Culver City During Congressional Hearing
2/13/2026, 12:45:11 AM
Tensions Rise in Congressional Hearing
During a recent House Judiciary Committee hearing focused on Jeffrey Epstein, a contentious exchange unfolded between Pam Bondi, the attorney general, and Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, who represents California's 37th District. The hearing, which included victims of Epstein, saw Kamlager-Dove confront Bondi regarding the Justice Department's lack of direct apologies to these victims. Bondi expressed her sorrow for the victims' experiences but faced criticism for her agency's perceived inaction.
Bondi's Critique of Culver City
In her response, Bondi criticized Kamlager-Dove's representation of Culver City, stating, “Her district includes Culver City, and she’s not talking about any crime in her district.” This remark ignited backlash from Culver City residents and officials, who took to social media to defend their community. Mayor Freddy Puza highlighted the city's declining crime rates, noting a 9.7% decrease in 2024 and an additional 6.1% drop in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year. Puza emphasized that the statistics contradict Bondi's claims, stating, “The facts simply do not support the Attorney General’s narrative from today’s Congressional hearing.”
Community Response and Social Media Reactions
The exchange quickly gained traction online, with various individuals and public figures chiming in. Comedian Heather Gardner humorously remarked on the city's high smoothie prices, stating, “The worst crime in Culver City is that they charge $24 for a smoothie at Erewhon.” Residents echoed positive sentiments about their city, with one user declaring, “Culver City is f***ing beautiful.” Kamlager-Dove also shared the clip of the hearing on social media, inviting Bondi to visit and experience the city, which she described as known for its parks and vibrant community rather than crime.
Official Statements & Responses
Mayor Freddy Puza's response to Bondi's comments underscored the disconnect between the attorney general's portrayal of Culver City and the reality of its crime statistics. He expressed hope for a correction from the federal Department of Justice but remained skeptical. Kamlager-Dove's invitation for Bondi to visit Culver City further emphasized the community's pride and the desire to showcase its positive attributes.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Bondi's remarks, including local residents and public figures, have pointed out the disparity between her claims and the actual crime data. Many have expressed frustration over the portrayal of Culver City as unsafe, arguing that it undermines the community's efforts to promote a positive image and address real issues.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There are violent, dangerous people out here with real threats, and the dishonesty from your agency comes from the covering up of these threats that could hurt American people and put our lives at risk. Do better,” — Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Congresswoman
- “The facts simply do not support the Attorney General’s narrative from today’s Congressional hearing,” — Freddy Puza, Mayor of Culver City
- “Culver City is known for parks, studio lots, and breakfast burritos — not crime,” — Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Congresswoman
