Official reports from the LA County Sheriff's Department or local news analysis

LA Sheriff Luna Warns Looters: 20 Arrested Amid Wildfires

Jan 9, 2025, 04:47 PM

Los Angeles County officials have arrested at least 20 individuals on suspicion of looting homes evacuated due to the ongoing wildfires. Initially, LA County Sheriff Robert Luna reported two arrests, but the number has increased as authorities continue to crack down on criminal activities in the affected areas. "If you are thinking about coming into any of these areas to steal from our residents... you're going to be caught, you're going to be arrested, and you're going to be prosecuted," Luna warned, expecting the number of arrests to rise further. "Shame on those who are preying on our residents during this time of crisis," said LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger. District Attorney Nathan Hochman echoed the sentiment, stating that looters and scammers will be "arrested, prosecuted, and punished to the full extent of the law." The wildfires, including three large blazes, have forced evacuations across the Los Angeles area, and officials are pledging to hold accountable those who take advantage of the disaster.