Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares (R–Santa Clarita) announced that Senate Bill 571, which she authored, has been signed into law by the Governor. The legislation increases criminal penalties for offenses committed against victims during a declared state of emergency, including crimes such as impersonating first responders and looting.
“Protecting our most vulnerable isn’t just our duty – it’s a moral mandate,” said Senator Valladares. “I’m proud this vital legislation is now law.”
The bill was introduced in response to incidents during recent wildfires, where criminals took advantage of chaotic conditions by impersonating emergency personnel to access disaster-affected areas and loot homes.
“During the recent fires, we saw criminals preying on victims, looting homes and even impersonating first responders,” Valladares continued. “Let there be no doubt: predators who exploit the desperate and defenseless will face serious consequences. This behavior will not be tolerated. Justice will be swift, certain, and uncompromising.”
SB 571 was a bipartisan effort with joint authorship from Senator Bob Archuleta (D–Pico Rivera) and Senator Jesse Arreguin (D–Berkeley).
“Government’s first and most essential responsibility is to protect its citizens, especially those who are most vulnerable,” said Senator Valladares. “This new law sends a clear and unmistakable message: anyone who preys on disaster victims will be held accountable. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the Legislature for supporting this bill and to the Governor for signing it into law. Together, we are working to restore safety and trust in our communities.”
