LOS ANGELES, CA – A woman wearing a shirt emblazoned with the words “Palisades Strong” was arrested Friday for allegedly looting a home in the area affected by the Palisades Fire, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The arrest marks the latest in a series of looting incidents reported in fire-ravaged zones across Los Angeles County.
The Palisades Fire, which began on January 7, has devastated the Pacific Palisades area, damaging or destroying nearly 12,000 structures. As residents work to clear toxic debris and begin rebuilding, access to the area has been restricted. Despite these measures, law enforcement has struggled to prevent looting, with dozens of individuals arrested or charged for stealing from properties impacted by the flames.
On Friday, CHP officers responded to a looting report in the Pacific Palisades. By the time they arrived, the suspect had already fled the scene. However, witnesses provided a detailed description of the suspect and her vehicle, enabling officers to track her down.
The investigation led authorities to a home in Valencia, where they identified the suspect as Karen Mastey. Officers reported finding stolen antiques in her possession, believed to have been taken from the fire-damaged property. Mastey was arrested and is now facing charges of grand theft.
In a photo released by the CHP, Mastey can be seen wearing a shirt that reads “Palisades Strong,” a phrase meant to symbolize resilience and community solidarity in the face of disaster. The irony of her attire has drawn significant attention, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and residents in fire-affected areas.
The arrest underscores the persistent issue of looting in disaster zones, where vulnerable communities are targeted by individuals seeking to exploit the chaos. Authorities continue to urge vigilance and cooperation from the public to prevent further incidents.
