Over 20 arrested for crimes amid California fires, including burglar 'dressed like a fireman'
More than 20 people have been arrested, including one for impersonating a firefighter, for criminal activity amid the fires in Los Angeles County, according to authorities.
About 25 individuals were taken into custody in the Eaton fire area, while four were arrested in the Palisades area, Los Angeles Sheriff's Department Chief Robert G. Luna said during a news conference Sunday.
"When I was out there in the Malibu area, I saw a gentleman that looked like a firefighter, and I asked him if he was okay because he was sitting down. I didn't realize we had him in handcuffs," Luna recalled.
"We were turning him over to LAPD because he was dressed like a fireman, and he was not. He just got caught burglarizing a home," he continued. "Those are issues that our frontline deputies and police officers are dealing with."
The firestorm severely damaged both areas, and forced residents to evacuate their communities.
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Officials give warning about looting, other crimes
Other arrests over the weekend were for violating curfew, which was set from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. in the mandated areas impacted by the deadly fires.
"Enforcing a curfew is an important tool to keep the burn areas and evacuated property secure, keeping looters out," Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said. "This effort also helps protect public safety personnel who are operating in darkness in very difficult conditions."
During the news conference, Luna warned individuals planning to commit crimes, including scams, white collar, or burglary "during this very difficult time" that local officials are "eager to prosecute" them if necessary.
Last week, California Gov. Gavin Newsom deployed National Guard members to aid with public safety efforts.
"Thanks to the incredible work of our first responders and emergency personnel, we’re throwing everything at our disposal – including our National Guard servicemembers – to protect communities in the days to come," Newsom said in a news release. "And to those who would seek to take advantage of evacuated communities, let me be clear: looting will not be tolerated."
Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: More than 20 people arrested for crimes during Eaton, Palisades fires