Couple with fake fire truck busted in LA fire evacuation zone: sheriff

Los Angeles authorities recently made headlines when they arrested a couple for impersonating firefighters near the Palisades Fire area. Dustin Nehl, 31, and Jennifer Nehl, 44, were taken into custody by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office for pretending to be firefighters and attempting to enter an evacuation zone with a fake firetruck.

The couple’s scheme was uncovered when an LAPD patrol unit, accompanied by fire personnel, noticed a suspicious fire truck in the Palisades Fire area. The officers alerted deputies after realizing that the truck did not appear legitimate and that the individuals inside were trying to access the evacuation zone.

Upon closer inspection, deputies observed that both suspects were dressed in turnout gear and claimed to be from the “Roaring River Fire Department” in Oregon. However, further investigation revealed that the department was not real, and the truck had been purchased at an auction. The fake firetruck was impounded by authorities.

In addition to their fake uniforms and truck, the couple was also wearing CAL-Fire t-shirts, helmets, and radios. They admitted to deputies that they had entered the evacuation zone, leading to their arrest.

Further scrutiny of Dustin Nehl’s background revealed a criminal history in Oregon, including charges of criminal mischief and arson. The case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.

This incident is just one of many related to criminal activity during the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles. As of January 12, a total of 29 individuals have been arrested in connection to the wildfires, with 25 arrests made in the Eaton Fire area and four in the Palisades Fire evacuation zone.

It is crucial for authorities to remain vigilant and crack down on such fraudulent activities to ensure the safety and security of residents and emergency responders. The swift action taken against the Nehls serves as a reminder that impersonating first responders is a serious offense with potentially dangerous consequences.

As the investigation continues, the community can rest assured that law enforcement is actively working to protect them from individuals who seek to take advantage of emergency situations for personal gain.