Palisades Fire in Los Angeles: Sheriff Busts Fake Fire Truck Impersonating Firefighters
The couple claimed to be with a fire department that did not exist, according to authorities who said the fire truck they purchased at auction was not part of the department's fleet.
A couple was arrested for pretending to be firefighters and attempting to enter an evacuation zone with a fake firetruck near the Palisades Fire area, according to Los Angeles authorities.
According to Planet Chronicle Digital, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office confirmed that Dustin Nehl, 31, and Jennifer Nehl, 44, were arrested for pretending to be firefighters and entering an evacuation zone.
A fire truck that did not seem legitimate was spotted by an LAPD patrol unit while driving through the Palisades Fire area with fire personnel.
Deputies were informed by officers that individuals in a fake fire truck tried to enter an evacuation zone.
Officials stated that deputies observed both suspects wearing turnout gear as they approached the truck.
Deputies discovered that the "Roaring River Fire Department" in Oregon did not exist, and the truck was bought at an auction.
The fire truck was impounded by authorities.
The two individuals were wearing CAL-Fire t-shirts under their turnout gear, along with helmets and radios, according to officials.
The couple admitted to deputies that they had entered the evacuation zone.
In Oregon, Dustin Nehl has a criminal record that includes charges of criminal mischief and arson.
On Tuesday, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office will receive the case from investigators for filing consideration.
In Los Angeles, about 29 individuals have been detained as of January 12 due to criminal offenses linked to the ongoing wildfires.
According to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna, 25 of the arrested individuals were in the vicinity of the Eaton Fire, while four others originated from the Palisades Fire evacuation zone.
Planet Chronicle Digital's Danielle Wallace contributed to this report.
Stepheny Price is a writer for Planet Chronicle Digital and Fox Business. If you have story tips or ideas, you can send them to [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]).
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