Los Angeles, United States - January 13, 2025 In a shocking turn of events amid the chaos of the ongoing wildfires, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced charges against 10 individuals for crimes committed during the devastation. These charges include felony residential burglaries, arson, and a hit-and-run incident, all taking place in areas ravaged by the fires. Nine individuals face felony charges related to burglaries in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, while another defendant, Jose Gerardo Escobar, has been charged with arson for allegedly starting a fire in Azusa. The District Attorney condemned these actions as an “attack on our community during a time of unprecedented loss and vulnerability.” “These crimes are appalling,” Hochman said. “If you exploit this tragedy to prey on victims of these deadly fires, we will find you and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.” The coordinated investigation involved numerous agencies, including the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, showcasing strong law enforcement collaboration. Among those charged are Martrell Peoples and Damari Bell, accused of looting homes in the Mandeville Canyon area during the fires. Peoples faces a potential life sentence, while Bell could face over two decades in prison. Additionally, Escobar, arrested for attempting to start a fire in Azusa, is facing up to nine years in state prison if convicted. Rudy Salazar and Lucia Jilrara Perez are charged with residential burglaries in Altadena, and several other individuals are facing similar charges related to thefts during the Eaton fire. District Attorney Hochman emphasized the urgency of enforcing curfews in the affected areas to ensure public safety. “We will not tolerate this kind of lawlessness,” he warned. Law enforcement continues to work tirelessly to hold these criminals accountable and protect the community in this time of crisis.