LOS ANGELES (KTLA) – An Oregon couple who allegedly tried to sneak into the Palisades fire evacuation zone by impersonating firefighters are facing charges and possible prison time, prosecutors say.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced Wednesday that Dustin Nehle, 31, and Jennifer Nehle, 44, were each charged with one misdemeanor count and announced the charges on Friday. They were charged with fraudulently impersonating certain fire department personnel, misconduct in relation to badges or related matters, and misrepresentation.
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies arrested a couple on January 18 as they tried to enter a Malibu evacuation zone in a fake fire truck, authorities said. At the time of the encounter, they were allegedly wearing fake firefighter clothing, including Cal Fire shirts.
According to the department, the couple claimed to be employees of the Roaring River Fire Department in Oregon, which does not exist. The engine they were driving was said to have been purchased at an auction.
The fake fire truck was allegedly purchased at auction and used by an Oregon couple to enter the Palisades Fire evacuation zone. “Todorokawa Fire Department” does not exist. (Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office)
“Impersonating first responders, especially during emergency situations, puts the safety of our communities and the well-being of those who choose to participate in such reckless behavior at risk,” Hochman said. Ta. “This type of conduct can have dire consequences and mislead the public into entrusting incompetent responsibilities to unqualified individuals.”
Dustin is being held on $30,000 bail. The DA’s office said Jennifer was released because she has no criminal history.
They are each scheduled for a pretrial hearing Feb. 11 in Van Nuys West Court. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to 180 days in county jail.
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