BRENTWOOD—On Thursday, July 18, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office disclosed that Steve Farzam, 46, of Brentwood has been charged with 28 criminal counts — including 23 felonies — for a string of alleged crimes that occurred between 2023 and May 2025, including impersonating a firefighter during the Palisades Fire, assaulting a first responder, and discharging a laser at aircrafts.
On January 16, Farzam allegedly posed as a firefighter during the Palisades Fire, gaining access to restricted emergency zones and interfering with emergency operations.
The various alleged offenses span more than a year and includes incidents that put public safety and emergency personnel at serious risk.
Felonies that Farzam face include:
-Six counts of discharging a laser at an aircraft.
-Three counts of assault with a deadly or dangerous weapon.
-Four counts of assault upon a peace officer.
-One count of impersonation of a public officer, investigator or inspector.
-One count of carrying a loaded unregistered handgun in a vehicle.
-Seven counts of perjury by declaration.
-One count of procuring and offering false or forged instrument.
And the following misdemeanors:
-Two counts of impersonating a fire officer.
-Three counts of trespassing on closed lands.
The defendant pleaded not guilty during his arraignment. He is currently being held without bail. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 28 in Department 30 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center.
If convicted as charged, Farzam could face up to 23 years and 10 months in state prison. The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Danny Jones