Oregon Pair Arrested for Posing as Firefighters During Palisades Fire Emergency

Two Oregon residents were arrested Saturday in Los Angeles County after allegedly impersonating firefighters and attempting to enter an evacuation zone during the active Palisades Fire. Dustin Nehl, 31, and Jennifer Nehl, 44, were discovered operating a fire truck purchased at auction while wearing firefighter turnout gear and CAL-Fire t-shirts.
The suspects claimed to represent "Roaring River Fire Department" in Oregon, which investigators quickly determined was not a legitimate agency. Law enforcement spotted the suspicious fire truck while patrolling the evacuation zone with fire personnel.
According to authorities, the pair admitted to entering the evacuation zone the previous day, January 17. Both suspects were arrested and their vehicle was impounded. Investigators noted that Dustin Nehl has a prior criminal history in Oregon involving arson and criminal mischief, though neither suspect has a criminal record in California.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Major Crimes Bureau plans to present the case to the District Attorney's Office on Tuesday for potential prosecution. Both suspects face charges of impersonating firefighters and illegally entering an evacuation zone.
Authorities are seeking additional information about the incident and encourage witnesses to contact the Major Crimes Bureau or submit anonymous tips through L.A. Crime Stoppers.






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