Overview

• On July 16, LAPD and ATF agents executed multi-location search warrants at Steve Farzam’s Brentwood and West Los Angeles properties, seizing a Pierce fire engine, two vehicles with exempt license plates and extensive first responder gear.
• Farzam, 46, was arraigned on July 18 and faces 28 felony counts including impersonating a firefighter, assault with a deadly weapon, perjury and discharging a laser at aircraft.
• Prosecutors allege he used a fictitious Santa Muerte Fire Department identity to obtain government-exempt plates, enter restricted Palisades Fire zones and acquire law enforcement-reserved firearms.
• He is held without bail and could face up to 23 years and 10 months in prison if convicted, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for July 28.
• The months-long investigation led by the LAPD’s Major Crimes Division alongside county sheriffs, the DA’s office and federal partners highlights escalating risks from fake first responders.