The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) announced on Jan. 19 the arrest of a couple from Oregon for impersonating firefighters during the ongoing wildfires, a case that marks the latest in a string of similar incidents. This arrest highlights the challenges emergency personnel face during the chaos of a disaster, as authorities work to maintain order and safety amid widespread devastation....
Dustin Nehl, 31, and Jennifer Nehl, 44, were apprehended on Jan. 18, after authorities discovered them attempting to enter an evacuation zone in the Pacific Palisades area while posing as firefighters. According to LASD officials, the two were in a fire truck that appeared suspicious to an LAPD patrol unit, who were driving through the evacuation zone with fire personnel. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the truck, which was purchased at an auction, was not an official firefighting vehicle, and the couple was not affiliated with any legitimate fire department.
The Nehls were both dressed in full firefighting gear, including CALFire t-shirts, helmets, and radios, and claimed to be with the “Roaring River Fire Department” from Oregon...The truck was impounded, and both individuals were arrested for impersonating firefighters and unlawfully entering an evacuation area.
Dustin Nehl has a criminal history in Oregon for criminal mischief and arson, though neither individual had a prior criminal record in California. Investigators are set to present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration on Tuesday, Jan. 23.
Los Angeles County has a new District Attorney who, unlike his predecessor, has promised to take a hard line on criminals.
