MacArthur Park Benches Taken Away Amid Concerns About Growing Issues with Drugs and Violence
Bus Stop Bench Removed in MacArthur Park Amid Ongoing Safety Concerns
LOS ANGELES – A bus stop bench has been removed in MacArthur Park following complaints from local residents about homeless individuals sleeping there and engaging in nearby drug use. However, many community members argue that the elimination of the bench is only a small step in addressing a much larger public safety crisis.
Residents and commuters in the area report that issues such as open drug use, violence, and general safety concerns continue to plague the neighborhood, despite recent law enforcement efforts targeting these problems. The park remains a troubled location within the city, with visible signs of addiction and discarded needles on the streets.
During a recent visit, FOX 11 observed escalating tensions, including a violent altercation occurring in broad daylight. One resident, identified as Carly, expressed skepticism about the likelihood of resolving the persistent problems. "They ain’t ever going to fix the problem, baby," she remarked.
William Howard Chromity, another local resident, emphasized the need for vigilance as he navigates the area. "You gotta talk back and rough too," he said, describing the worsening drug epidemic he perceives around him. Chromity also voiced concerns over the potential image implications for upcoming major events, such as the Olympics and World Cup, due to the drug crisis.
These community worries come amid a series of law enforcement actions in the area. Recently, federal agents and DEA officers conducted raids on businesses in MacArthur Park, followed by LAPD operations that led to arrests and seizures of fentanyl, cash, and pills. Nevertheless, locals argue that conditions deteriorate rapidly after dark.
When questioned on the effectiveness of these interventions, Chromity responded, "No, because the same rats come out at night."
The bench removal has ignited mixed reactions. Some residents support the decision, citing public safety concerns linked to drug use. "Too many people sleeping there, doing drugs there," Carly stated. Conversely, others believe this action unjustly impacts commuters who depend on public transportation. Angela Robinson, who is currently six months pregnant, now finds herself waiting for buses while standing where the bench once was. "That doesn’t make any sense to me," she commented.
In a statement to FOX 11, Mayor Karen Bass’ office indicated that the bench was removed for maintenance, with a second bench taken out at LAPD’s request to enhance public safety. The statement emphasized that this action is part of a broader strategy aimed at improving safety in MacArthur Park, a challenge that has persisted for decades.
The mayor’s office highlighted ongoing initiatives combining social services, homeless outreach, and strict law enforcement. These efforts include drug treatment referrals, increased park programming, improved lighting, and cleanup operations.
According to data shared by the mayor’s office, serious and violent crime dropped nearly 25% as of December 2025, while medical calls from the Los Angeles Fire Department in the MacArthur Park corridor decreased more than 20% from 2024 to 2025.
