Crime in fire-ravaged Altadena has soared 250% following the Eaton Fire, with burglary rates increasing by a staggering 400%, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD). Authorities say looters are targeting evacuated and damaged homes, stripping them of copper wiring and other metals.
Copper Theft Drives Crime Wave
Sheriff’s deputies have doubled patrols in the affected zone after residents reported multiple incidents of metal theft from burned structures. A recent sting operation led to the arrest of 15 individuals in just 16 hours, said Lt. Ethan Márquez of the Altadena Sheriff’s Station. Eight suspects face felony charges while seven are charged with misdemeanors.
In one instance on April 13, deputies apprehended a suspect with 500 pounds of metal piping found in his vehicle.
Organized Looting and High-Tech Tactics
Authorities report that thieves often work at night, breaking into fire-damaged homes to extract copper, piping, and wiring for resale. Some have gone as far as impersonating utility workers or using technology to bypass existing security systems.
To combat these efforts, the Sheriff’s Department has formed a Looter Suppression Team, engaged specialized anti-theft units, and conducted hundreds of property checks. Surveillance via helicopters and drones has also been ramped up.
“These efforts ensure continuous 24-hour patrolling to provide a consistent and visible law enforcement presence,” LASD stated.
Sheriff’s Department Offers Property Patrol Program
The department also offers a home-check program where residents can request property patrols during recovery. Requests can be submitted via email to [email protected].
Mixed Reactions from the Community
Not all community members agree with the Sheriff’s focus. Sadio Woods of Essie Justice Group noted that in post-fire community surveys, “Zero percent of those folks said anything about crime or looting.”
There have also been reports of returning residents being mistakenly stopped and questioned as potential looters.
Law Enforcement Pledges Ongoing Support
Despite the controversy, LASD says its focus remains on protecting residents. “The rebuild is going to take several years,” said Lt. Márquez. “We’re going to keep bringing additional resources in as long as we can to make sure that the theft and all the crime is reduced.”
