Santa Monica police have released new mugshots following several arrests amid the ongoing Palisades fire, which has devastated the Los Angeles area. Authorities have apprehended numerous individuals in evacuation zones for charges such as attempted vehicle theft, possession of narcotics, possession of burglary tools, and possession of stolen license plates.
Why It Matters
The Palisades fire, which started on January 7, has caused widespread destruction in Los Angeles County, with at least 24 people confirmed dead, 16 missing, and more than 12,000 structures destroyed. Over 105,000 residents remain under evacuation orders.
Recent Arrests
Since the fire began, Santa Monica police have made over 40 arrests in evacuation areas.
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Christensen Alexander Weithorn
On January 10 at 1:00 AM, officers responded to a traffic stop conducted by UCLA police at 4th Street and Alta Avenue. The driver, Christensen Alexander Weithorn, was found to be the registered owner of a handgun, which was concealed in a backpack inside his vehicle. Weithorn was arrested for possession of a concealed firearm, and the investigation is ongoing.
Markhi Toles, Joshua Charles, Fernando Garcia Jr., and Khamari Toles
At 4:20 AM on January 10, officers stopped a vehicle within the evacuation zone during the curfew. The vehicle’s license plates did not match the registered information, and upon inspection, officers found additional license plates, key fobs, a key fob programmer, a window breaker, and burglary tools. Fernando Garcia Jr., 22, and his three passengers—Markhi Toles, 20; Joshua Charles, 19; and Khamari Toles, 18—were arrested on charges of conspiracy to commit vehicle theft, possession of fraudulent license plates, and burglary tools.
Adrian Moreno Hernandez, Moises Becerra Garcia, Carmen Alicia Lopez
On January 11, officers stopped a vehicle with an altered license plate on 9th Street. The driver, Adrian Moreno Hernandez, 49, was found to be unlicensed and in possession of narcotics and burglary tools. His passengers, Carmen Alicia Lopez, 56, and Moises Becerra Garcia, 49, were also arrested on charges related to drugs and burglary tools. Garcia provided false identification during the stop.
Timyan Exequiel Mujica
On Sunday evening, officers stopped a vehicle on Montana Avenue for driving without a front license plate. The driver, Timyan Exequiel Mujica, was found to have an active felony warrant for grand theft from San Bernardino County. During the search, officers found 24 pairs of glasses, which are under investigation for potential theft connections.
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Phillip Michael Briones
On January 11 at 11:00 PM, officers stopped Phillip Michael Briones, 32, who was in violation of the city’s curfew in the evacuation zone. Briones was found in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia and was arrested.
What People Are Saying
SMPD Chief Ramon Batista expressed gratitude for the officers’ dedication: “While the fires tested the resilience of many, each of them stood strong, ensuring that the city of Santa Monica remained safe. I’m also thankful for the support from mutual aid partners and the National Guard for helping secure the evacuation zones.”
What Happens Next
The investigations into criminal activity during the Palisades fire continue. The suspects could face legal action if further evidence is found.
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