LOS ANGELES (KABC) — The Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman has announced multiple arrests and criminal charges in the wake of the devastating Southern California wildfires. Hochman vowed to pursue those taking advantage of the vulnerable victims of the fires.
Speaking to Eyewitness News on Tuesday, Hochman condemned the recent crimes near fire zones as “despicable.” He spoke about the emotional toll of the fires, citing the personal loss of his own sister in Pacific Palisades, and the exploitation of those affected by the disaster.
Criminals Exploit the Vulnerable
On Monday, Hochman revealed charges against 10 individuals in connection to crimes related to the wildfires. Nine of these suspects are facing felony charges for residential burglaries in Pacific Palisades and Altadena. One individual has been charged with arson for intentionally starting a fire in Azusa.
Hochman emphasized the severity of the crimes, stating that two of the suspects face life imprisonment due to their status as three-strikers, while another could receive up to 22 years as a second-striker. The arsonist faces up to nine years in prison.
Details of the Arrests
Last Wednesday, 21-year-old Damari Bell and 22-year-old Martrell Peoples were arrested for burglarizing a home in Mandeville Canyon. The following day, 27-year-old Travon Coleman attempted to evade police, leading to a crash at Figueroa and 5th Streets, injuring a driver. Coleman fled on foot but was eventually captured.
In Azusa, 39-year-old Jose Gerardo Escobar is accused of attempting to ignite a large tree that had fallen during the fire. He faces multiple felony charges, including arson during a state of emergency.
A Stern Warning to Criminals
District Attorney Hochman issued a stern warning to criminals, stressing that those involved in looting, fraud, or other crimes related to the wildfires would be held accountable. Hochman made it clear that immigration status would not exempt anyone from facing the law, and any criminals, documented or undocumented, would be pursued.
Price Gouging Protections and Accountability
As thousands of displaced families seek shelter, California Attorney General Rob Bonta warned against price gouging. His office received reports of businesses inflating prices for goods and services, including hotel rooms and rental properties.
Under California law, during an emergency, price increases are capped at 10%. Violators face penalties, including up to a year in county jail and fines up to $10,000. Price gouging protections will remain in effect for 30 days, while contractor-related services may be protected for up to six months.
How to Report Price Gouging
Attorney General Bonta urged the public to report any suspected price gouging to local authorities or his office. “Be on the lookout for illegally jacked-up prices,” Bonta said, encouraging the community to take action against those exploiting vulnerable residents during the crisis.
As the wildfires continue to impact Southern California, authorities are working to ensure that those responsible for criminal activities are held accountable, providing justice for victims and maintaining order amid the devastation.
