California man arrested for impersonating firefighter to steal from burned-out Los Angeles property

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A California man is accused of dressing up as a first responder in order to steal from burned-out homes in Los Angeles. Authorities arrested him on suspicion of burglary, part of a larger wave of more than two dozen arrests in Los Angeles County for wildfire evacuation zone violations and other crimes. The man, who was wearing a firefighter's uniform, was stopped Friday night in Malibu, where a Palisades fire evacuation order was in effect. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna recounted the encounter, saying: “While I was in the Malibu area, I saw a gentleman who looked like a firefighter and I asked him if he was okay. , because he was sitting. I didn't realize we had handcuffs on him.” The man, who claimed to be a firefighter, was later revealed to have been impersonating a firefighter during the burglary. Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonald added, “There were three individuals in a vehicle … one wearing a fire jacket and fire hat.” The county implemented strict evacuation zones in evacuation zones from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew, and increased patrols, aimed at preventing further exploitation of victims. McDonald stressed, “We have people who will stop at nothing to do what they want to do to exploit the victims of this tragedy.” As of latest reports, about 29 people have been arrested for violating the curfew, and others face additional charges. Authorities continue to warn residents that scammers are trying to take advantage of the damage caused by the fires. Like this: Like Loading… Discover more from Baller Alert Subscribe to have the latest posts delivered to your email.

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