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Amid the devastating wildfires ravaging Los Angeles, a new crisis has emerged as looters target evacuated neighborhoods, prompting legal action against nine individuals. The upscale Pacific Palisades area, which suffered extensive fire damage last week, has become particularly vulnerable to theft, with both destroyed and intact homes falling prey to criminal activity.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman revealed that among the charges filed are cases involving a $200,000 burglary and the theft of an Emmy statuette. One defendant could face life imprisonment if convicted, leading Hochman to issue a stern warning: “The question is not if, but when, you will be caught if you engage in these crimes. Do not commit any of these crimes in which people are trying to profit from the tragedy of the people who have suffered from these various fires.”
Looters in LA are dressing as firefighters amidst wildfires to burgle homes. Sheriff Luna reported several arrests, including one mistaken for a real firefighter. The public is urged to be vigilant. Need to prosecute to the fullest extent! @PORACalifornia pic.twitter.com/Ifrwne25YI
— Brian Marvel (@BrianMarvel) January 12, 2025
The surge in burglaries has drawn sharp criticism from LA County officials, including Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger, who stated, “Shame on those who are preying on our residents during this time of crisis.”
The situation remains dire, with 92,000 residents still displaced and 12,000 structures destroyed. Law enforcement has restricted access to evacuation zones, with the National Guard providing additional security to protect abandoned properties.
⚠️🚨 Burglar dressed as firefighter arrested in LA wildfire evacuation zone, authorities say
The arrest was one of about 29 in Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire evacuation zones as criminals prey on residents forced from their homes in LA County. pic.twitter.com/TehahWAVVR— AɯƙɯαɾԃMαɱα™® (@AwkwardMamaNews) January 12, 2025
Recent arrests include two suspects captured on Ring doorbell footage breaking into a home in Mandeville Canyon during the Palisades fire threat. One suspect, Martrell Peoples, faces potential life imprisonment under the three-strikes law, while his alleged accomplice, Demari Bell, could receive up to 22 years. A third individual was apprehended for a hit-and-run incident connected to the burglary investigation.
Another suspect, 29-year-old Joshua Kaliel Love, was caught with burglary tools, a dagger, gloves, and narcotics while violating his probation. Additionally, six others face charges related to multiple home burglaries in Altadena, including the Emmy Award theft, though the statuette’s owner remains unidentified.