Additional Coverage:
- Santa Monica police release mugshots of suspects accused of trying to loot during California wildfires (foxnews.com)
Looters Arrested in Santa Monica Evacuation Zones
The Santa Monica Police Department has identified nearly a dozen burglary suspects who targeted homes in evacuation zones after the Palisades Fire. Six suspects possessed burglary tools, and none of the suspects lived in Santa Monica.
The police have arrested 39 people in the evacuation zones, including those charged with attempted burglary, curfew violations, and drug possession.
Joshua Kaliel Love, one of the burglary suspects, fled from officers and was found with a dagger, window-breaking tool, mask, gloves, and narcotics. He was on probation at the time.
Dominic Pachecomanga and Miguel Angel Dorantes, two other burglary suspects, were found in a van with burglary tools, gloves, and ski masks. They allegedly used the Watch Duty app to track fire and evacuation zones.
Gabriel Isaih Stokes was arrested after police identified his car as stolen. He was found with burglary tools, a ski mask, and stolen IDs. Stokes has a history of burglary and robbery charges.