Arson Suspect Arrested
November 30, 2021 2:48 PM
During the early morning hours of November 28, 2021, Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) officers were called to investigate a series of dumpster and trashcan arsons in the downtown area.
SMPD officers contacted a witness who provided them a description of the suspect believed to be involved. At approximately 3:45 am, an officer located a male who ran from him but was subsequently detained in the 400 block of Arizona. The suspect, later identified as Jonathan Powell, a 28-year-old homeless male, was positively identified as the suspect in one of the arsons and believed to be responsible for at least five others. During a search of Powell’s person, officers located several lighters in his front pants pocket.
Powell was taken into custody and booked for Arson and Delaying Arrest.
Anyone with any information pertaining to this incident, or any other similar incidents, is strongly encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigation Division at 310-458-8451 or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8426.
Media Contact
Rudy Flores
Captain
Rudy.Flores@SMGOV.NET