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For the first time since the devastating Palisades Fire tore through Malibu and the Pacific Palisades, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is set to reopen this Sunday, February 2, at 8 a.m. The reopening marks a significant step in the region’s recovery, yet many residents fear it may also invite an increase in crime.
The wildfire, fueled by relentless Santa Ana winds, claimed at least 27 lives, burned over 12,000 structures, and left entire neighborhoods in ruins. While some homes were miraculously spared, they remain uninhabitable due to water and power outages. For residents unable to return full-time, the fear of looters and squatters looms large.
Security Concerns in the Wake of Disaster
In normal circumstances, PCH is a lifeline for Southern California, connecting communities along the coast. But in the aftermath of the fire, with entire blocks reduced to ash, some see reopening the road as an open invitation for criminal activity.
Eric Hoek, a Pacific Palisades resident, voiced his concern:
“If anybody can come and go freely and we’re not here full-time because the house can’t be lived in right now, who’s going to stand guard and watch over the house so that it doesn’t get broken into?”
Other evacuees have noticed an unsettling change in the area’s atmosphere. Adam McFarland, who frequently returns to check on his property, described an unfamiliar presence along PCH.
“It’s bizarre, the sort of people you’d see on PCH coming through town.”
Increased Law Enforcement Presence
City officials have attempted to ease concerns by deploying what they describe as an "unprecedented surge" of law enforcement to patrol the area.
L.A. Mayor Karen Bass assured residents:
“The LAPD will surge a specific presence into the Palisades community to make sure that everyone is safe. If you do not need to be in the Palisades, don’t be. We have a zero-tolerance policy for crime.”
The LAPD's plan includes:
66 officers and six supervisors dedicated to the Palisades
Automated license plate readers to track suspicious vehicles
Patrols every half-mile along the reopened section of PCH
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell confirmed, “There will be police pretty much everywhere driving around the Palisades streets.”
Balancing Recovery and Safety
While security remains a top concern, officials are focused on facilitating recovery efforts. Residents need access to their properties to work with insurance adjusters, contractors, and moving companies. The reopening of PCH will also allow supply trucks to deliver essential materials.
CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee urged caution:
“The safety of our community, first responders, and road crews remains our top priority as we reopen this vital stretch of highway.”
Residents remain on edge, hopeful that law enforcement can maintain order as the rebuilding process begins. Whether the police presence will be enough to prevent crime remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Malibu’s road to recovery is only just beginning.
Source: KTLA
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