No one likes thuggish behavior especially when it violates existing laws designed to protect public safety. So it is with the current paparazzi plague.
That said, the impulse to limit free speech and constitutionally protected access of journalists to public spaces is wrong. The Federal and California constitutions prohibit limits on free speech even when it may be offensive to certain persons or organizations. The case in point includes the swarms of paparazzi on public beaches, shopping centers and local streets. Yes, they can be obnoxious and yes, they are protected.
We already have copious laws against stalking, obstructing public walkways, committing traffic hazards and threatening public safety. What is needed to address paparazzi misconduct is adequate enforcement of existing laws. What is not needed is the establishment of questionable committees that are magically not covered by the Brown Act or other requirements for public and transparent operation. What we need is an actual police presence that is visibly lacking in Malibu. PCH is a slaughterhouse, there is no supervision in Corral Canyon where youngsters are still partying, we have recently had shootings in Point Dume and heroin and prescription drug abuse are apparently rampant in local schools and homes.
What is the point of enacting more laws that will not be enforced, especially laws with real constitutional problems that will be immediately challenged in court to great expense?
Malibu will be better served with the re-establishment of a local sheriff substation in the Civic Center staffed with deputies that are familiar with the city and its residents. It is time for the city to pony up the effort and cash to close this critical public safety gap. Enforce the laws already on the books for a safer Malibu.
Marshall Thompson