Palisades Fraud: Suspects Use Fake Fire Engine to Pose as Firefighters

Two individuals from Oregon were arrested this past weekend after allegedly impersonating firefighters in an attempt to enter a restricted evacuation zone during the Palisades Fire. The suspects, identified as 31-year-old Dustin Nehl and 44-year-old Jennifer Nehl, were detained on January 18 following a tip-off from LAPD officers.

The LAPD grew suspicious of the fire truck the suspects were driving and informed the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), who quickly followed up. When deputies approached the vehicle, they discovered that both suspects were wearing full firefighting turnout gear, including Cal Fire shirts, helmets, and radios.

The couple claimed to be affiliated with the “Roaring River Fire Department” from Oregon, but upon investigation, deputies determined that the fire department did not exist, and the fire truck had been purchased at an auction.

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Further inquiry revealed that the Nehls had been inside the evacuation zone a day earlier, raising additional questions about their intentions. While the relationship between the two suspects remains unclear, officials noted that Dustin Nehl has a criminal mischief record in Oregon, though neither individual had prior criminal offenses in California.

Although authorities have not disclosed the suspects’ motive for impersonating firefighters, the pair faces charges related to this act. The fire truck was impounded, and the case will be forwarded to the L.A. County District Attorney’s Office for possible prosecution.

Anyone with further information regarding the case is asked to contact the LASD Major Crime Bureau at 562-946-7893, or anonymously via the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org .

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Lailyah Duncan

Lailyah Duncan is an insightful writer at The Chieftain Spear, where she explores themes of culture, resilience, and community through compelling storytelling. Passionate about bringing diverse perspectives to light, Lailyah's work reflects a deep commitment to empowering voices and fostering meaningful conversations. With a talent for weaving narrative and purpose, she continues to inspire her readers with thought-provoking articles that celebrate heritage and advocate for positive change.

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