Culver City Residents Dispute Attorney General's Claim of Crime Problem

Bondi's remarks about crime in the LA suburb confuse local officials and residents.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a viral exchange during a congressional hearing, Attorney General Pam Bondi suggested that Culver City, a suburb of Los Angeles, has a crime problem. However, Culver City officials and residents strongly dispute this characterization, describing the city as a safe, family-friendly community with a thriving local economy and culture.

Why it matters

Bondi's comments have thrust Culver City into the national spotlight, raising questions about the accuracy of her claims and the broader issue of how crime is perceived and discussed, especially in affluent, progressive communities.

The details

During the hearing, Bondi criticized Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, whose district includes Culver City, for not addressing crime in her district. However, Culver City officials and residents say the city is known for its low crime rates, thriving businesses, and family-friendly atmosphere. While the city has experienced some isolated incidents of crime, local leaders maintain that Culver City is generally a safe and welcoming community.

  • On Wednesday, Attorney General Pam Bondi made the comments about crime in Culver City during a congressional hearing.
  • In 2024, the last full year of data, Culver City reported 25 sexual assaults and 115 robberies.
  • In December 2025, a man was shot and killed near the Sony lot in Culver City.

The players

Pam Bondi

The attorney general of the United States who made the comments about crime in Culver City during a congressional hearing.

Sydney Kamlager-Dove

A Democratic congresswoman whose district includes Culver City, and who was criticized by Bondi during the hearing.

Bryan Fish

The vice mayor of Culver City, who expressed confusion and surprise at Bondi's remarks.

Holly Mitchell

A county supervisor whose district includes Culver City, who also expressed surprise at Bondi's comments.

Freddy Puza

The mayor of Culver City, who defended the city's reputation as a safe and family-friendly community.

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What they’re saying

“The only crime here is like the $18 strawberry at Erewhon.”

— Bryan Fish, Vice Mayor of Culver City

“I said, 'Wait, did she just say Culver City?' That's funny as hell.”

— Holly Mitchell, County Supervisor

“We're surrounded by the megatropolis of L.A. city, but we offer so much.”

— Freddy Puza, Mayor of Culver City

What’s next

The Department of Justice has stated that Bondi's comments were meant to discuss a specific case involving a former Culver City employee charged with federal crimes related to child exploitation. It remains to be seen if Bondi or the DOJ will provide further clarification or context around her remarks.

The takeaway

Bondi's comments about crime in Culver City have highlighted the disconnect between perceptions of crime and the reality on the ground in affluent, progressive communities. This incident underscores the importance of relying on factual data and local perspectives when discussing public safety issues, rather than making broad generalizations.