YORBA LINDA, Calif. -- Two suspected looters were arrested outside a Yorba Linda home that burned-down during last month's wildfire.
Police officers called to investigate a suspicious van outside the home early Monday found two women and copper pipes inside the vehicle. The pipe was apparently taken from the incinerated home.
Sgt. Bill Smyser said it's the first time he's heard of looters targeting burned-down homes.
Officers arrested 36-year-old Gwendolyn Smith and 19-year-old Elisha Haas and they were booked for investigation of possession of stolen property.
About 120 homes were destroyed in Yorba Linda during the November wildfire.
Metal thieves have been a problem for years because of high prices fetched at recycling yards.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
