Los Angeles County’s sheriff said Thursday 20 looters have been arrested since the wildfires began torching the county’s northern enclaves this week.

Sheriff Robert Luna said the thieves “chose to go into areas and deprive these poor people, who have been through so much, of their property.”

None of the looters have been identified, and their charges weren’t shared during the Thursday press conference.

He said the current evacuation order gives police the power to charge people with misdemeanors for being caught in the area. The sheriff said those who commit other crimes can be charged with felonies under the order.

“If you are in one of these areas and you do not belong there, you are going to be subject to arrest,” Sheriff Luna said. “Our first choice isn’t to do enforcement. … It’s to help people, but if people choose to commit crimes, they’re going to be held accountable.”

The first wildfire broke out Tuesday after a brush blaze was spread by strong winds near Pacific Palisades.

Fires have also started in cities such as Eaton, Hurst, Lidia and Woodley. The Woodley fire has since been contained.

At least five people have been killed in the blaze, and close to 200,000 have been forced to evacuate their homes.

• Matt Delaney can be reached at mdelaney@washingtontimes.com.