Golden State Today

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office has provided preliminary figures from the 2025 Deltopia event in Isla Vista, held from April 4 to April 6. Over the weekend, law enforcement issued 485 citations and made 84 arrests. Additionally, five DUI arrests were made, all involving underage drinkers aged 18 to 20.

Previous years saw fewer incidents, with 256 citations and 32 arrests in 2024 and 151 citations and 23 arrests in 2023.

The event began calmly on Friday with 10 citations and one arrest by the Sheriff's Office, and 10 more citations by Alcohol Beverage Control. However, Saturday showed a significant rise in both crowd size and emergency calls, mostly related to alcohol intoxication. Law enforcement coordinated effectively with fire and medical teams, making use of pre-planned rescue units. There were no fatalities related to cliff falls or fentanyl overdoses, and no injuries to law enforcement officers.

An incident occurred at 10:54 a.m. on Marketplace Drive, when deputies found a subject with a loaded firearm, leading to an arrest. Additionally, six individuals were arrested in connection to a violation of the festival ordinance as part of a month-long investigation. Deputies executed a warrant at 11:17 a.m. on Del Playa for an unauthorized paid party.

Lieutenant Schmidt, of the Isla Vista Foot Patrol Station, commented, “This year’s Deltopia operation showcased the strength of teamwork and efficiency. Our team, made up of nearly 300 deputies and officers from 8 law enforcement agencies, worked tirelessly to maintain public safety and respond quickly to medical emergencies. With the larger-than-usual crowds, our officers did an excellent job keeping up and ensuring the safety of the community.”

He also acknowledged local residents, stating, “We want to thank those who refrained from hosting parties on overloaded balconies. Your cooperation played a key role in keeping Isla Vista safe.”

The Sheriff's Office expressed gratitude toward community partners and first responders, including various law enforcement and emergency services agencies, for their support and collaboration during the event.