Self-described militia groups have often inserted themselves into natural disaster zones, they said. The Sheriff's Office had not requested the militia's presence and said members were acting on "their own courteous accord." The group's presence came as firefighters appeared to make significant gains, even after the fire had destroyed 41 structures and kept thousands from their homes. It's residents like Perez that the uniformed militia group said it was looking to help. The Mariposa County Sheriff's Office did not respond to requests for comment.

Source: Los Angeles Times July 28, 2022 16:24 UTC