Malibu Billionaires Clash Over Beach Sand Theft

A legal battle has erupted in Malibu between billionaires James Kohlberg and Mark Attanasio over accusations of sand theft from Broad Beach. Kohlberg, son of the founder of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., alleges that Attanasio, owner of the Milwaukee Brewers, illegally used excavators to take sand from the public beach for his private seawall repair, violating permits that prohibit such actions. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, includes photographs and claims that Attanasio's actions have restricted public access and endangered marine life. Attanasio denies the allegations, asserting that all activities were permitted and compliant. Kohlberg seeks financial penalties and a court order to restore the sand. This case underscores ongoing tensions over public beach access in affluent California coastal areas.