Emergencies can often bring out both the best and worst in people.
As firefighters battle devastating wildfires in Malibu, California, law enforcement faces another challenge: preventing crime in evacuated areas.
A man disguised as a firefighter was caught red-handed attempting to rob a home in Malibu, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna.
Dressed as a firefighter
The suspect was arrested in the middle of the burglary, dressed in what appeared to be firefighter gear, but authorities quickly confirmed he was an impostor.
The arrest occurred in the Palisades evacuation zone, an area heavily affected by the fires.
Over 100,000 residents have been evacuated since the fires began earlier in the week, leaving many homes vulnerable.
Police reported that this suspect was among approximately 20 individuals detained for various offenses during evacuation operations, according to Digi24.
Sheriff Luna recounted how deputies encountered the suspect.
"We saw someone sitting on the ground in firefighter clothing and approached to check on him," Luna said.
Upon closer inspection, it became clear the man was handcuffed.
"He was being escorted to the Los Angeles Police Department after being caught in the act of breaking into a home."
Authorities have implemented strict security measures in the affected areas.
A nighttime curfew has been enforced in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Altadena, with anyone found in these areas between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM facing arrest.
The curfew aims to protect evacuated properties from further incidents like this one.
The ongoing wildfires have already claimed 16 lives and destroyed over 12,000 buildings, leaving many Californians reeling from the destruction.
While firefighters and emergency responders work tirelessly to contain the flames, law enforcement must address the opportunistic crimes that arise in the chaos.
