Authorities stated that around 29 individuals have been apprehended in Los Angeles for involvement in criminal activities linked to the ongoing wildfires. Among them was a burglary suspect who allegedly tried to pass off as a firefighter, according to officials on Sunday.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna mentioned that 25 of the arrests were made in the vicinity of the Eaton Fire, while the other four were from the Palisades Fire evacuation area.
Recalling a specific incident, Luna described encountering a man in Malibu who appeared to be a firefighter but was ultimately revealed to be a burglar disguised in firefighter attire. The individual was turned over to the LAPD for further action.
Police Chief Jim McDonald of the Los Angeles Police Department disclosed that one person was taken into custody on Saturday for violating the city’s curfew order, while three others were arrested the previous night in connection to a burglary.
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McDonald warned about the curfew remaining in place from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. local time, emphasizing that violators would face arrest. The curfew’s objective is to maintain security in burned regions and evacuated properties to prevent looting.
Additionally, McDonald highlighted the dangers posed by downed power lines and toxic materials from burnt substances, cautioning individuals about donating to legitimate organizations to assist wildfire victims.
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Luna issued a warning to potential scammers looking to exploit wildfire victims, assuring that collaboration with legal authorities at various levels is in place to prosecute such individuals.
During a press conference, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger invited President-elect Trump to witness the wildfire aftermath and recovery efforts in the affected communities.
“I eagerly await President-elect Trump’s visit to witness the urgent requirements and the remarkable resilience of our impacted neighbors. It is this spirit of hope that assures me of our communities’ ability to recover and rebuild,” she expressed.
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Barger and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass affirmed their ongoing communication with incoming administration officials, dispelling any insinuation of animosity.