Authorities in Santa Monica share photos of suspects suspected of attempting to plunder during the California wildfires.
Police clarify that none of the accused looters reside in the Santa Monica region.
Nearly a dozen attempted burglary suspects within Palisades Fire evacuation zones in Santa Monica were recently identified by the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD), none of whom reside in the town, according to police.
Officials stated that six of the 10 suspects were found with "burglary tools" in their possession. All of them had traveled to the disaster area from outside the area.
Since the start of the Palisades Fire, 39 individuals have been apprehended by the department in evacuation zones, according to SMPD's statement to Planet Chronicle.
Those not accused of attempted burglary were arrested for curfew violations, drug possession, warrants, parole and probation violations, and other charges.
None of the 39 arrested are from Santa Monica, officials said.
Joshua Kaliel Love, 29, was caught with a dagger, window-breaking tool, mask, gloves, and narcotics while running from officers. He was on probation at the time of his arrest.
Officials stated that two other burglary suspects, Dominic Pachecomanga, 18, and Miguel Angel Dorantes, 22, were found in a van without identification, wearing gloves, burglary tools, dark clothing, ski masks, and carrying large tote bags.
According to police, Pachecomanga and Dorantes were reportedly using the Watch Duty app on their phones, which tracks fire and evacuation zones.
Gabriel Isaih Stokes, 27, was arrested in Santa Monica after a plate reader identified his car as a stolen vehicle. He was in possession of a stolen California ID, fake IDs, burglary tools, a black beanie and ski mask, and large bags, according to police.
Officials stated that Stokes had previously been accused of burglary, robbery, and grand theft.
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