20 Individuals Arrested for Looting Amid Los Angeles Fires
Officials in the city and law enforcement have issued strong warnings to those looking to take advantage of the ongoing crisis by committing crimes.
As multiple fires rage across Los Angeles, the county, and nearby areas, claiming the lives of seven individuals, over 20 arrests have been made for burglary, looting, and various property offenses.
During a press conference held on Thursday morning, city representatives delivered firm cautions against such criminal activities.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna noted that over 400 sheriff’s department personnel are actively engaged in addressing the fires, in addition to the regular patrol staff across the county.
The sheriff’s department continues to offer security in evacuation zones to deter criminal actions such as looting, he mentioned.
Luna explained that remaining in an area under evacuation order is considered a misdemeanor. If certain crimes are committed, the consequences may escalate to felony charges.
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“If you’re present in these areas without proper authorization, you risk arrest,” he stated.
The sheriff also warned that the death toll from the fires may increase and urged residents to heed the instructions and guidelines from local officials and law enforcement.
“I cannot stress enough how important it is for residents asked to evacuate to follow our advisories,” he stated.
Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell also addressed those looking to exploit the situation and take advantage of others.
“We will be monitoring the situation closely and will hold you accountable for any wrongdoing,” McDonnell asserted.
Newly-elected Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman expressed that he has never witnessed such devastation in the 60 years he has resided in the area.
The fires, which remain unexplained in terms of their cause, have led to the destruction of over 10,000 structures and displaced nearly 180,000 residents under evacuation orders. Since their start on Tuesday, the fires have scorched more than 29,000 acres, making them the most catastrophic in Los Angeles history.
“It appeared apocalyptic,” Hochman remarked. “Not since the 1990s, when Los Angeles faced fires, floods, earthquakes, and riots, have I witnessed such a disaster in our city.” He conveyed optimism regarding the city’s potential for recovery.
Hochman sent a stern warning to those contemplating criminal actions.
“If you choose to loot, burglarize, commit grand theft, or engage in online scams targeting those seeking insurance and government assistance, you will face arrest, prosecution, and severe penalties under the law,” he cautioned.
On Thursday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom sanctioned a request from the county to mobilize the California National Guard to assist law enforcement efforts in the affected areas.
