Local prosecutors in Altadena, the Pacific Palisades, and Malibu are taking action against reported price gouging following devastating wildfires. Thousands of homes have been destroyed or damaged, leaving residents in a desperate situation in the already competitive housing market.
According to a spokesperson for Hydee Feldstein Soto, the City Attorney’s office is investigating approximately 650 price gouging complaints, with most related to rent. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman has expressed his commitment to seeking maximum punishment for these offenses, calling them a direct assault on the community during a time of immense loss and hardship.
Soto’s office recently filed criminal charges against two individuals for violating the wildfire curfew in the Palisades, while Hochman announced charges related to residential burglaries in the affected areas. The fires have burned over 37,000 acres and tragically claimed at least two dozen lives.
Luxury real estate agent Jason Oppenheim highlighted the issue of price gouging, citing a state law that prohibits property owners from charging more than 10% above market rates in emergency areas. He shared a personal experience where a landlord attempted to charge significantly above market rate for a rental property.
The crackdown on price gouging is ongoing as authorities work to protect residents in the aftermath of the wildfires.
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