Woman wearing ‘Palisades Strong’ shirt arrested for looting burned-down home

A girl carrying a t-shirt in assist of Palisades Fireplace victims, and who appeared to run an internet fundraiser for them, was arrested Friday on suspicion of looting the destroyed properties of a type of similar victims.

Based on the California Highway Patrol, a looting report got here in at about 1 p.m. Friday at a burned-down house within the Pacific Palisades, however upon arrival, officers have been unable to discover a suspect however the sufferer was capable of present an in depth description of a girl and her car.

The investigation traced the registration of that car to a house in Valencia. Officers responded to the house and made contact with a girl who was in possession of vintage objects that have been stolen from the destroyed house.

That girl, recognized as Karen Mastey, was arrested on suspicion of Grand Theft. Pictures launched by the CHP confirmed Mastey, together with her face blurred in compliance with California Law, carrying a shirt that claims “Palisades Sturdy.”

Mastey seems to be the organizer of an online fundraiser designed to lift cash for households affected by the fires. Within the put up’s description, she claimed to be “born and raised” within the Pacific Palisades from the Seventies by way of the 90s.

She stated that her brother’s house burned down within the hearth, in addition to the properties of a number of mates.

“100% of funds might be used for non-disaster associated bills for households who misplaced actually every little thing from their properties of over 40 years,” the posting reads.

When requested concerning the fundraiser, the CHP informed KTLA that the investigation was ongoing. As of midday on Saturday, it had raised $250 of its $18,000 aim.

The CHP stated Mastey’s present handle is in Valencia, and was not a part of the fires. When requested if the looting sufferer was probably a member of the family or good friend on Mastey, the CHP stated the sufferer doesn’t know her, and didn’t grant her permission to enter the property.

“I’m extremely happy with the swift motion taken by our officers to guard the general public and forestall additional hurt,” stated CHP Southern Division Chief Chris Margaris. “Their dedication to serving and aiding these in want throughout this difficult interval displays the very best requirements of the CHP.”

It wasn’t instantly clear if Mastey would face prices for the offense, however state lawmakers just lately introduced a bill that may make penalties harsher for looters throughout a time of emergency. If handed, the invoice would enable prosecutors to hunt felony prices for theft occuring at fire-damaged or evacuated properties.

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