Prosecution of Suspected Curfew Violators and Price Gougers in Palisades Fire Zone
The Los Angeles city attorney’s office is cracking down on individuals who violate fire-related curfews and engage in price gouging in the aftermath of the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires. City Atty. Hydee Feldstein Soto is leading the charge, emphasizing the importance of public safety and holding offenders accountable for their actions.
Two Men Charged with Curfew Violations
Two men in their mid-40s are facing charges for breaking the 6 p.m.-to-6 a.m. curfew implemented on January 9 in response to the fires. This curfew, limited to fire evacuation zones in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Malibu, and unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, aims to prevent looting and ensure the safety of residents and first responders. Both individuals were found in a restricted area in Pacific Palisades at 4:30 a.m. on a Saturday, violating the curfew regulations.
Each man has been charged with a misdemeanor offense, which carries a fine of up to $1,000 and six months of imprisonment. Despite pleading not guilty, they are scheduled to appear in court for pretrial sentencing in late February. Feldstein Soto is adamant about upholding the curfew order and urges the public to report any violations they witness.
Crackdown on Price Gouging
In addition to prosecuting curfew violators, Feldstein Soto is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying individuals engaged in price gouging. Price gouging, defined as a significant increase in prices for essential goods and services exceeding 10%, is prohibited under the county’s emergency declaration issued on January 7. Violations of price gouging laws can result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $10,000, along with civil penalties and mandatory restitution.
Feldstein Soto emphasizes the importance of combatting price gouging to ensure fair access to necessities for all residents affected by the fires. She urges anyone with information on potential price gougers to reach out to the city attorney’s office. Together, the community can work towards healing, recovery, and rebuilding in the wake of this disaster.