Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna and other regional officials held a press conference regarding the developments. Luna announced that a night curfew will be imposed in the Palisades and Eaton areas affected by the fire in Los Angeles.
“You cannot be in these areas. If you are found, you will be detained.” Luna noted that this decision was put into effect to protect evacuated houses.
A FINE OR IMPRISONMENT WILL BE APPLIED
Luna stated that those who violate the curfew will be tried for “defective behavior” and if found guilty, they will be sentenced to a $1,000 fine or imprisonment.
Stating that evacuation orders were given for approximately 153 thousand people, Luna said that nearly 58 thousand buildings were in danger.
“WE WILL ACT WITH NEW APPLICATIONS”
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also reminded that National Guard Troops were assigned to the region and emphasized that the regional police were directed to provide security in the evacuated areas.
Underlining that no one will be allowed to “benefit” from this tragedy, Bass stated that planning for rapid reconstruction has begun.
Bass noted that bureaucratic obstacles will be removed during the reconstruction process and said, “We will shake the system and act with new strategies and practices.” he said.
“WE ACT WITH ZERO TOLERANCE”
Los Angeles Police Department Assistant Chief Constable Dominic Choi also stated that a total of 210 police officers were assigned to maintain law and order in the areas affected by the fire.
Explaining that police patrol the areas to ensure public safety and prevent criminal activities, Choi said, “We act with zero tolerance for looting. Those who loot or commit crimes in the affected areas will be detained and tried according to the law.” he said.
FLYING DRONES IS ALSO BANNED
Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Maroney reported that they detected a “drone violation” in the fire area yesterday.
Stating that a small drone hit the wing of the “Super Scooper firefighting plane” and created a hole, Maroney stated that the plane was urgently repaired and that it is expected to become functional again on Monday.
Stating that there are only two of these planes, Maroney said, “Flying drones in the fire zone is not only dangerous but also illegal.” he warned.
Stating that federal forces will monitor drone flights, Maroney stated that flying drones in these regions means the suspension of all air operations.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Jeff Prang also noted that they estimate that at least 10 thousand properties have been damaged by the fires so far, and that they may share more detailed information in the coming days.
Authorities reported that Hurst’s fires were 37 percent under control, Palisades’ 8 percent, Kenneth’s 35 percent and Eaton’s 3 percent.
Source: AA