Santa monica police crack down on fire looters near evacuation zone with 39 arrests

Santa Monica police crack down on fire looters near evacuation zone with 39 arrests

SANTA MARIA, CALIF. — Santa Maria Police Department officers arrested three individuals late Sunday near the evacuation zone on multiple charges, including drug possession and carrying burglary tools.

The suspects were booked for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without a valid license, providing false identification to a peace officer, and possession of burglary tools, police reported.

Santa monica police crack down on fire looters near evacuation zone with 39 arrests
Photo: santa monica police crack down on fire looters near evacuation zone with 39 arrests

Between January 7 and the morning of January 12, SMPD has arrested 39 individuals within the evacuation zones. Charges have ranged from burglary and possession of burglary tools to drug-related offenses, driving violations, outstanding warrants, and parole or probation violations.

Authorities confirmed that none of the individuals arrested are residents of the local area.

Law enforcement has increased patrols in the evacuation zones to deter criminal activity and safeguard evacuated properties.

Santa monica police crack down on fire looters near evacuation zone with 39 arrests
Photo: santa monica police crack down on fire looters near evacuation zone with 39 arrests
Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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