A former employee of a nonprofit organization that serves homeless individuals has been charged with federal drug offenses near Los Angeles' MacArthur Park. Christopher Barret Johnson, 42, was arrested on May 5 after a traffic stop by Los Angeles Police Department officers near the park. Authorities allege Johnson was in possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, empty baggies, a large amount of cash, and a scale in his BMW. He is now facing a federal charge of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Johnson, a resident of Culver City, reportedly told officers the drugs belonged to a woman named "Red" and that he was managing them for her. He also claimed to work for People Assisting the Homeless (PATH), a nonprofit organization that provides services to homeless individuals. PATH, however, stated that Johnson's employment ended on September 16, 2023, and that he was not affiliated with the organization at the time of his arrest.
PATH's Response and Allegations
PATH's media director, Tyler Renner, issued a statement condemning Johnson's actions, stating that the organization is "outraged and deeply disturbed" by the allegations. Renner emphasized that PATH does not tolerate unethical or illegal behavior and that any employee found violating its code of conduct is immediately terminated. The organization also denied claims that it distributes syringes in MacArthur Park, stating that its services are focused on trauma-informed care, substance use treatment, mental health care, and physical health services to support long-term stability.
Federal Raid and Broader Context
The arrest occurred amid a federal drug raid in MacArthur Park, where authorities seized 40 pounds of fentanyl, valued at $8-10 million, and enough for 190,000 fatal doses. U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, Bill Essayli, criticized California's drug policies following the operation, suggesting they have contributed to the park's status as a "notorious open-air drug market."
PATH, founded in 1983, operates in over 150 cities and provides services such as street outreach, housing navigation, interim housing, rapid re-housing, and permanent supportive housing. The organization clarified that it no longer has active contracts or services in the MacArthur Park area, with the last outreach services ending in June 2024.