Story perspectives

LAPD DEA arrest 13 in park drug crackdown

6/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

On June 4 2026, LAPD and DEA arrested 13 people at MacArthur Park during the third phase of the “Free MacArthur Park” initiative.
Capt. Ben Fernandes said the arrests involved public drinking, narcotics intoxication and possession of bulky items.
U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli called the raid a decisive step to end open-air drug use, while County District Attorney Nathan Hochman pledged park will be safe for picnic by Labor Day, citing overdoses and Narcan needs.

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Story summary

On June 4 2026, LAPD and DEA arrested 13 people at MacArthur Park during the third phase of the “Free MacArthur Park” initiative.
Capt. Ben Fernandes said the arrests involved public drinking, narcotics intoxication and possession of bulky items.
U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli called the raid a decisive step to end open-air drug use, while County District Attorney Nathan Hochman pledged park will be safe for picnic by Labor Day, citing overdoses and Narcan needs.