The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has been actively combating criminal activity within the Palisades Fire evacuation zones, resulting in the apprehension of 39 individuals since the fire’s commencement. Notably, none of the arrested individuals are residents of Santa Monica, highlighting the influx of opportunistic criminals from outside the community seeking to exploit the vulnerable situation. The SMPD’s efforts have focused on identifying and arresting individuals engaged in attempted burglaries, as well as enforcing curfew restrictions and apprehending individuals on outstanding warrants or other violations. The arrests underscore the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order and protecting property during emergencies, particularly in evacuation zones where residents are forced to leave their homes unattended.
Among the 39 arrests, the SMPD has specifically identified 10 individuals suspected of attempted burglary. Six of these suspects were found to be in possession of burglary tools, further emphasizing their intent to exploit the evacuated properties. The readiness of these individuals to capitalize on the disaster underscores the need for heightened security measures and proactive policing in evacuation zones. The SMPD’s release of their identities serves as both a deterrent to other potential offenders and a means of informing the community about the threats they face. The fact that none of the suspected burglars are local residents highlights the opportunistic nature of their actions and the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activity.
A closer examination of some of the individual cases reveals the extent of the preparedness and intent of these alleged burglars. Joshua Kaliel Love, 29, was apprehended after fleeing from officers. Upon his arrest, he was found in possession of a dagger, window-breaking tool, mask, gloves, and narcotics. Love’s probationary status at the time of his arrest adds another layer of concern, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the law. His possession of a variety of tools specifically designed for forced entry, along with items intended to conceal his identity, strongly suggests a premeditated plan to burglarize evacuated homes. The presence of narcotics further complicates his case and raises questions about potential underlying substance abuse issues contributing to his criminal behavior.
Another incident involved two suspects, Dominic Pachecomanga, 18, and Miguel Angel Dorantes, 22, who were found traveling in a van without identification. They were in possession of gloves, burglary tools, dark clothing, ski masks, and large tote bags – all indicative of a planned burglary operation. Significantly, both individuals had the Watch Duty app, which tracks fire and evacuation zones, open on their phones. This detail strongly suggests that they were actively monitoring the fire’s progress and targeting evacuated homes. The use of technology to facilitate criminal activity emphasizes the evolving nature of crime and the need for law enforcement to adapt its strategies accordingly.
The arrest of Gabriel Isaih Stokes, 27, provides another example of the calculated nature of these attempted burglaries. Stokes was apprehended after a plate reader identified the car he was driving as stolen. He was found with a stolen California ID, other fake IDs, burglary tools, a black beanie, a ski mask, and large bags. His prior charges of burglary, robbery, and grand theft reveal a pattern of criminal behavior and a propensity for property crimes. The possession of multiple fake IDs suggests an attempt to conceal his true identity and evade law enforcement. The collection of burglary tools and other items reinforces the intention to commit burglaries within the evacuated areas.
The SMPD’s proactive approach in addressing criminal activity within the Palisades Fire evacuation zones demonstrates a commitment to protecting the community during a time of vulnerability. The apprehension of 39 individuals, including those suspected of attempted burglaries, sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. The detailed information released by the SMPD about the suspects and their methods serves as a warning to potential offenders and empowers residents to remain vigilant in reporting suspicious activity. The ongoing efforts of the SMPD are crucial in maintaining order and ensuring the safety and security of the evacuated areas, as well as highlighting the broader challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to emergencies and preventing opportunistic crimes.
