After the weekend's deadly boat fire, we look at how underwater forensics are performed. Plus, a Silver Lake restaurant owner is accused of sexual harassment. Plus, Walter Mosley talks about his latest book, a writing guide, called "Elements of Fiction."
Eagle Rock Fire & Targeted Homeless
Two men were arrested in connection with the Eagle Rock Fire that broke out a little more than a week ago. The L.A. Fire Department said it was arson "related to a homeless encampment near the origin of the fire, and that the those living in the encampment were specifically targeted by the suspects." With the increase in attacks on the homeless...what can be done to stop it?
Guest:
- Councilman Mike Bonin
Fire Zone Ordinance
Wednesday, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved an ordinance that allows law enforcement to remove homeless individuals from high-fire-hazard severity zones. Under the new rule, law enforcement would be able to issue a direct notice to homeless individuals on days when the L.A. Fire Department says conditions pose a greater fire risk.
Deep-Sea Forensics
Thirty-three bodies have been recovered after the Conception dive boat caught fire and sank Monday morning off the Santa Barbara coast. One person is still missing. Investigations are now underway into the cause of the tragedy. The FBI will recover evidence while the National Transportation Safety Board will use it to decide if other vessels need to make changes, a full report might take years to put together. At the heart of it all is a question: what happened?
Guest:
- Michael Berry, runs the company Underwater Criminal Investigators
Restaurant Owner Accused of Sexual Harassment
A Los Angeles restaurateur has been accused of sexual harassment by several former employees. KPCC/LAist food editor Elina Shatkin brings us this investigation, where the #MeToo movement has come to local dining tables.
Vaccine Bill
On Wednesday, the state Senate gave final legislative approval to controversial vaccine legislation that would crack down on exemptions that some parents have provided to avoid vaccinating their children. Now the bill heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom, but it is unclear whether he will sign SB 276 in its current form.
Guest:
- Michelle Faust, KPCC health reporter
On the Lot
We've got a roundup of all the best movies that will be coming out over the next few months. Plus, Scarlett Johansson prepares for awards season for the first time since 2006.
Guest:
- Rebecca Keegan, The Hollywood Reporter
Walter Mosley
Walter Mosley has written dozens of books. His latest is a writing guide called "Elements of Fiction." He joins us in studio to talk about why he loves to write.
Guest:
- Walter Mosley, author