Authorities in Los Angeles have apprehended a couple accused of posing as firefighters and attempting to breach an evacuation zone near the Palisades Fire using a counterfeit firetruck. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office verified the arrests of 31-year-old Dustin Nehl and 44-year-old Jennifer Nehl on charges of impersonating firefighters and entering a restricted area.
The incident unfolded when an LAPD patrol unit, accompanied by legitimate fire personnel, spotted a suspicious firetruck within the Palisades Fire zone. Upon closer inspection, deputies discovered the occupants, clad in firefighting gear, claimed to be from the "Roaring River Fire Department" in Oregon. However, investigations revealed that this department was fictitious, and the truck had been acquired at an auction.
Further scrutiny revealed that both individuals were also sporting CAL-Fire T-shirts beneath their gear and were in possession of helmets and radios. They confessed to entering the evacuation zone. Adding to the gravity of the situation, Dustin Nehl has a prior criminal record in Oregon, including arson and criminal mischief.
According to LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, the pair face charges including fraudulent impersonation of fire personnel, unauthorized activities related to badges, and false representation. The impounded firetruck serves as evidence in the ongoing investigation.
This incident is part of a larger wave of arrests connected to criminal activities surrounding the recent wildfires. As of January 12, nearly 30 individuals have been apprehended, with the majority linked to the Eaton Fire and a smaller number from the Palisades Fire evacuation zone.
