Increased Patrols to Combat Looting
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has taken action to address the threat of looting in Altadena following the devastating Eaton fire. The newly formed Looter Suppression Team will be increasing patrols to provide more surveillance and a faster response time to neighborhoods that were evacuated during the fire but may be left unattended by residents returning home.
Continuous 24-Hour Patrolling
The Sheriff’s Department has emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent and visible law enforcement presence in Altadena neighborhoods still facing utility outages and heightened security risks. By deploying the Looter Suppression Team alongside other sheriff’s deputies and helicopter coverage, the aim is to ensure round-the-clock monitoring to deter criminal activity.
Recent Arrests and Ongoing Curfew Orders
In the aftermath of the Eaton and Palisades fires, law enforcement has made several arrests, including individuals posing as reporters and firefighters. Meanwhile, curfew orders remain in place for certain parts of Altadena, while road closures and evacuation orders have been lifted in some areas. The presence of the California National Guard has also been instrumental in maintaining security checkpoints, although they are not authorized to make arrests in evacuation zones.
Future Security Measures and Community Rebuilding
As Altadena residents gradually return to their homes and begin the process of rebuilding, the collaborative efforts of law enforcement, including the Looter Suppression Team and the California National Guard, are crucial in ensuring the safety and security of the community. While challenges persist, the commitment to protecting neighborhoods and restoring normalcy remains steadfast.
As a resident of Altadena, I vividly recall the fear and uncertainty that gripped our community during the Eaton fire. The sight of homes reduced to ashes and families displaced left a profound impact on all of us. Knowing that the Sheriff’s Department is taking proactive steps to prevent looting and maintain order brings a sense of reassurance amidst the chaos. It serves as a reminder that in times of crisis, our law enforcement agencies are dedicated to safeguarding our well-being and upholding the peace. Let us stand united as a community, resilient in the face of adversity, as we work towards rebuilding and healing together.