The devastation caused by the wildfires tearing through Los Angeles has been compounded by a reality that we have been writing about and covering for over 20 years now: criminals exploiting the chaos. While the city’s residents are grieving their losses and struggling to rebuild, looters disguised as firefighters and would-be arsonists have emerged, turning an already shitty situation into a nightmare.
This kind of opportunistic crime underscores what we’ve discussed extensively on OFFGRID Survival: during a crisis, people—not just the disaster itself—often become the biggest threat to your safety. Whether it’s fake law enforcement, looters targeting your resources, or even corrupt officials, the collapse of societal norms can and will bring out the worst in humanity.
The Crimes in the Fire’s Wake
While much of the area is still being devastated by fires, Los Angeles law enforcement has arrested over 68 pieces of human shit exploiting the wildfire’s destruction and looting ravaged homes. Among them, looters dressed as firefighters were caught burglarizing multimillion-dollar homes in Malibu.
Sheriff Robert Luna described one of the men they caught: “He was wearing a yellow fire jacket, boots, and jeans with an old fire department acronym. He looked the part but was far from it.” This is something we have warned about for years, and it highlights a critical survival lesson: appearances can be deceiving.
Another shocking case involved a man wielding a blowtorch to ignite old Christmas trees and debris in Woodland Hills. Juan Manuel Sierra-Leyva’s actions underscore the horrifying reality of arson during disasters—not only endangering lives but stretching already limited firefighting resources even thinner.
Meanwhile, ten would-be burglars were arrested in Santa Monica, none of whom lived in the evacuation zones they targeted. Police seized burglary tools, masks, and even a stolen vehicle.
In response, Signs reading “No Looters” and “Looters Will Be Shot” now dot fire-ravaged neighborhoods as residents take matters into their own hands to protect their property.
Heightened Security in Evacuated Areas
In response to widespread looting, security in evacuated neighborhoods has significantly increased. Many wealthy residents have hired private security firms to guard their homes, now abandoned due to the relentless wildfires.
Private guard Arturo Garcia, also a deputy sheriff, told the Los Angeles Times that he and his partner have been working tirelessly outside a stately home in Pacific Palisades, uncertain when they’d be able to return to their own families. Garcia works with Nastec, a private security company actively patrolling the area alongside fire trucks and law enforcement to deter looters in the largely burnt-out neighborhoods.
Adding to the tension, some residents have taken matters into their own hands, erecting signs that warn potential looters they will “be shot” if they attempt to burglarize the deserted homes.
The Broader Implications for your Survival During Times of Crisis
These incidents reflect themes we’ve covered before on OFFGRIDSurvival:
- Fake First Responders: As we first started covering almost 20 years ago after Hurricane Katrina and throughout countless other disasters, criminals often disguise themselves as law enforcement or emergency personnel to exploit vulnerable communities. This is why we keep talking about the importance of situational awareness and caution when interacting with strangers during a crisis. For more, see law enforcement during SHTF.
- The Threat of People: In our article on Survival Threats, we outlined how people—from opportunistic looters to desperate neighbors—pose a significant risk during emergencies. The fires in LA are another grim reminder that preparation is not just about resources but also about protecting yourself from human threats. Read more in survival threats posed by people.
- Government Overreach: Incidents like the firearm confiscations during disasters highlight how law enforcement and government agencies can sometimes exacerbate problems. With reports of corruption and abuse of power surfacing in disaster zones, it’s vital to stay alertt and prepared to defend your rights. Explore this further in SHTF prepper threats.
How to Stay Safe During a Crisis
- Identify Real First Responders: Be cautious of anyone claiming to be a firefighter, police officer, or emergency worker without proper credentials. If something feels off, trust your instincts and stay on high alert.
- Harden Your Property: Whether it’s a wildfire, hurricane, or civil unrest, make your home a hard target. Security measures like cameras, reinforced doors, and clear signage can deter criminals.
- Stay Mobile and Informed: Use tools like ham radios and evacuation apps to stay updated on the situation. Knowledge is power, especially when trying to avoid danger zones.
- Defend Yourself: Be prepared to protect your resources and loved ones. As we’ve said before, you are your own first responder during a crisis.
The Bigger Picture: How will you Respond?
As the fires continue to burn, it’s crucial to remember that disasters reveal the fragility of societal structures. In a true SHTF scenario, criminals will seize every opportunity to exploit chaos. By learning from these incidents, we can better prepare for the next crisis.
For more insights on surviving disasters and protecting yourself, check out our articles on law enforcement during SHTF, survival threats posed by people, and SHTF prepper threats. Knowledge is your greatest ally in a world where preparedness can mean the difference between life and death.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and don’t let the chaos win.
