The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) announced the reopening of certain evacuation zones affected by the Palisades Fire, allowing residents to return home while simultaneously bolstering security measures to combat looting. Zones C-111A, C-112B, and U-030B, situated near Malibu, became accessible to residents on Tuesday afternoon, with a mandatory checkpoint passage in Malibu. This move comes as the department shifts its focus from strict containment efforts to community support and recovery in the Altadena Eaton Fire burn area. The LASD recognized the vulnerability of evacuated areas to criminal activity and proactively established a specialized “Looter Suppression Team” to deter and address looting incidents.
The Looter Suppression Team comprises personnel from various LASD divisions, pooling their expertise to combat looting and other crimes that often emerge during emergencies. The team’s deployment is complemented by increased patrol operations with additional deputy personnel, ensuring a visible law enforcement presence throughout the affected areas. Aerial surveillance is also being conducted by the agency’s AERO Bureau, providing enhanced monitoring and rapid response capabilities. The combined efforts of ground patrols and aerial surveillance ensure continuous 24-hour coverage, particularly in neighborhoods grappling with utility outages and heightened security concerns.
While a curfew order remains in effect in Los Angeles County, its application is now restricted to areas under active evacuation orders. Residents under evacuation warnings are no longer subject to the curfew restrictions. This adjustment aims to balance safety concerns with the need to allow residents to resume their lives as much as possible. The LASD emphasized its commitment to assisting returning residents during this challenging transition period. The department’s efforts are focused on facilitating a smooth return to normalcy by ensuring safety, preventing criminal activity, and reassuring the community.
The LASD’s strategic shift reflects a transition from emergency response to recovery and community support. The initial focus on containing the fire has now evolved into a comprehensive approach that addresses the immediate safety needs of returning residents while acknowledging the potential for criminal activity in evacuated areas. The establishment of the Looter Suppression Team and the increased patrols are proactive measures designed to deter looting and provide reassurance to residents.
The LASD also expressed gratitude to the residents of Altadena for their patience, resilience, and cooperation during the challenging circumstances. This acknowledgment highlights the collaborative relationship between law enforcement and the community, recognizing the shared responsibility in navigating the aftermath of a disaster. The department’s commitment to ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of all communities across Los Angeles Countyunderscores its dedication to serving the public.
For residents returning home, a staging area has been established at the Malibu Pier, located at 23000 Pacific Coast Highway. This centralized location provides a point of contact for residents and facilitates their organized return to their properties. The LASD’s comprehensive approach encompasses both immediate security concerns and the long-term recovery process, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the community throughout the aftermath of the Palisades Fire.
