Police Department

Public Service Announcement

Officer T. Leming, PIO

Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at 2:35 p.m.

The Spokane Police Department is reminding the public that entering fire damaged homes without permission and taking property is a crime.

The Spokane Police Department is aware of reports of people entering fire-damaged homes and taking property without permission. This is not scavenging or salvaging. It is a crime, and SPD will treat it as such.

A home does not become abandoned because it has been damaged by fire. The property that remains still belongs to someone. Entering a home without permission may be trespassing or burglary. Taking property that does not belong to you is theft. Those who do so may be arrested and referred for prosecution.

Fire survivors have already suffered significant loss. Items that remain may have financial or personal value. Do not add to that loss by taking what is not yours.

SPD will continue patrolling affected neighborhoods and investigating reports of theft. If you see someone entering a fire-damaged home or removing property without permission, contact law enforcement and provide the location, a description of the people involved, and vehicle information if available.

The message is simple: These homes and belongings have owners. Respect their property. The law still applies.

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