The Palisades Fire has been burning since January 7 and has caused devastation throughout Los Angeles, killing at least 24 people, destroying over 12,000 structures, and displacing more than 105,000 residents. As firefighters fight unyielding flames, another crisis has developed: looting in evacuated zones.
In a shocking display of police action, the SMPD arrested over 40 suspects relating to the offenses committed in those vulnerable areas. Charges relate to burglary, possession of burglary tools, drug possession, and curfew violations among others; some include parole breaches. The police also released mugshots of three individuals as part of the effort to impose order amidst chaos.
SMPD Chief Ramon Batista said ten suspects were arrested for burglary in the evacuation zones-mostly in Santa Cruz County-and that six had tools for breaking in. “Our officers worked diligently to secure these zones, and we certainly appreciate the National Guard’s assistance in manning the entry/exit points,” Batista said.
The arrests include high-profile cases of thefts andDUis that have left the community reeling. One of the notorious repeat offenders rounded up is identified as Joshua Kaliel Love, who was one of those arrested caught with burglary tools, narcotics, and a dagger while on probation. Love fled from officers but later was taken into custody; he had previously been arrested for methamphetamine possession, only days before.
In another incident, 18-year-old Dominic Pacheco Magana and 22-year-old Miguel Angel Dorantes were caught in a white van with no identification and bearing stolen registration stickers. A search revealed burglary tools, gloves, a ski mask, and tote bags—indicators of an intent to loot. The Watch Duty app, used to monitor fire zones, was found on Magana’s phone, further implicating the duo.
Adding to the list are Martrell Peoples and Damari Bell, who allegedly looted more than $200,000 of valuables, including a purloined Emmy award. Their actions epitomize brazen exploitation of a community brought to its knees by disaster.
Curfew has been strictly issued from 6 pm to 6 am to avoid the criminal activity in the evacuation zones. Sheriff Robert Luna firmly warned that, “Anyone found in violation of the curfew and looting will receive severe punishment.” To add, District Attorney even stated, “Loot, if you will. But you’ll be arrested, prosecuted, followed by punishments under the law to full extent.”
This deployment of the National Guard has provided additional security, which is assuring that residents can return to their homes without the fear of theft. SMPD officers continue to patrol evacuation zones along with our mutual aid partners to safeguard property against further crime.
The arrests have outraged officials and residents. “Shame on those preying on our residents during this crisis,” said Kathryn Barger, a member of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. “I promise you will be held accountable.”
This frustration is captured in the current public sentiment-a number have been taking to social media platforms, calling for tougher anti-crime legislation and more efficient enforcement of law so that such incidents will be a thing of the past. “Will progressives in California now finally understand the need to pursue tougher crime policies?” a prolific commentator questioned on social media.
