A woman named Karen Matsey was arrested for looting a home in the Palisades Fire area while wearing a t-shirt with the ironic statement “Palisades Strong.” Authorities were called to the residence in Pacific Palisades on Feb. 21 for a looting report, and although Matsey had fled the scene, the victim provided a description of her vehicle. Police were able to track her down at her home where they found several stolen antiques. Matsey has been arrested and is facing grand theft charges. The Chief of CHP Southern Division commended his officers for their swift action in protecting the public and preventing further harm during the recovery efforts for the Pacific Palisades Community.
Since the Palisades Fire began on Jan. 7, police have arrested dozens of people in connection with looting. The Santa Monica Police Department announced 39 arrests in evacuation zones, all of whom were not residents of the community. The Los Angeles Police Department has made 34 arrests, with individuals being charged for curfew violations, drug possession, warrants, and probation violations in addition to attempted burglary. Authorities are concerned about the added stress placed on residents who have already been evacuated and are dealing with the aftermath of the fires, as they attempt to rebuild their properties while facing the threat of looters victimizing them.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney reported that nine individuals have been charged with looting homes in wildfire zones, with one also facing charges of arson. As residents in the Pacific Palisades area work to clear toxic debris and begin the rebuilding process after over 10,000 structures were damaged or destroyed by the fire, authorities have been restricting access to the area. The swift actions taken by law enforcement are aimed at protecting the community and ensuring that those affected by the wildfires can recover and rebuild without the added stress of potential looters endangering their safety and efforts to rebuild.
The California Highway Patrol’s Southern Division shared images of the arrest of Karen Matsey, highlighting her ironic choice of clothing during the alleged looting incident. Officers have been actively involved in recovery efforts for the Pacific Palisades Community, and the Chief of CHP Southern Division commended the officers for their quick response in protecting the public and preventing further harm. The commitment of law enforcement to serving and assisting those in need during challenging times reflects the highest standard of the CHP and their dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community in the face of natural disasters and criminal activity.
The issue of looting in areas affected by wildfires has been a concern for law enforcement, with dozens of individuals being arrested for looting in the Palisades Fire area. The Los Angeles Police Department has made multiple arrests, including individuals charged with attempted burglary, curfew violations, drug possession, and other offenses. As residents attempt to rebuild and recover from the devastation caused by the wildfires, authorities are working to prevent further harm by limiting access to the area and taking swift action against those attempting to take advantage of the vulnerable situation. The proactive efforts of law enforcement are aimed at safeguarding the community and ensuring that those impacted by the wildfires can focus on rebuilding and recovering without the threat of looters causing additional harm.
