Los Angeles County has taken firm action to protect fire-affected communities from criminals. A nightly curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. was put in place last week in evacuation and warning zones to curb looting. Authorities announced on Monday that 10 individuals have been charged for crimes committed during the recent Palisades and Eaton fires.
At a news conference, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman shared the progress. “These charges are the result of teamwork across multiple agencies,” he said. “It’s incredible to see such swift action in bringing justice.”
Among those charged are Martrell Peoples and Damari Bell, accused of breaking into a home in Mandeville Canyon on January 9. They face charges of first-degree residential burglary and looting during an emergency. Another suspect, Travon Coleman, is charged with felony hit-and-run for allegedly crashing into another vehicle while fleeing from police, injuring the driver.
Six other individuals—Rudy Salazar, Lucia Jilrara Perez, Roy Sims, Ryan Sims, Naquan Dewey Reddix, and Pierie Obannon—are accused of stealing from homes during the Eaton Fire in Altadena. Police even recovered a stolen Emmy award during their investigation.
One suspect, Jose Gerardo Escobar, is charged with arson and attempted arson after allegedly trying to ignite a large tree in a park in Azusa. This charge is not linked to the wildfires but underscores the zero-tolerance policy toward such behavior.
LAPD Assistant Chief Blake Chow reassured residents during the press conference. “If you commit a crime, we will find you, and justice will be served,” he said. “This team has your back.”
So far, over 40 arrests have been made in connection with burglaries, looting, curfew violations, and other crimes in fire-stricken areas. The FBI is also investigating a serious incident involving a private drone that collided with a firefighting aircraft, damaging its left wing. Thankfully, the plane landed safely, but authorities are seeking public help to identify the drone’s operator.
To bolster community safety, Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed hundreds of California National Guard members. “We’re throwing everything we have into protecting these communities,” Newsom said in a statement. “And let me be clear: looting will not be tolerated.”
With the curfew in place and law enforcement on high alert, authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of residents and the integrity of their homes during this challenging time.
