More Suspects Linked to Small Fires are Arrested and Charged in LA County
Two More Arrests Made in Small Fire Investigations
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell announced on Wednesday that two more people were taken into custody for allegedly setting small fires in Los Angeles amid high fire-danger conditions. This comes as crews continue to work on containing two major blazes that have killed over two dozen people and destroyed thousands of structures.
Arrests Made on Tuesday
At 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday, officers responded to a call at Glenoaks and Van Nuys boulevards, where a resident had detained a suspect who allegedly set fire to a tree. The resident was able to put out the flames and call the police. When officers arrived, the suspect admitted to setting the fire, stating "he liked the smell of burning leaves," McDonnell said.
Later that night, around 9:30 p.m., officers responded to a call at Santa Monica Boulevard and Vermont Avenue, where a suspect was setting fire to piles of rubbish and trash. Officers were able to douse the flames and arrest the suspect, who told them she "enjoyed causing chaos and destruction," police said.
Additional Arrests Made over the Weekend
McDonnell also reported three other arrests made over the weekend, all involving individuals who allegedly set small fires in the San Fernando Valley and West Los Angeles. These suspects were part of a larger group of individuals who were taken into custody for allegedly setting fires in the region.
Charges Filed
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced on Wednesday that his office has charged two additional people in arson cases. Jaime Mota, 37, is charged with one count of felony arson of property and one count of felony arson during a state of emergency. Mota is being held on $350,000 bail and faces up to seven years in prison if convicted as charged.
The second suspect, Ruben Michael Montes, 27, is charged with one count each of felony arson during a state of emergency, felony possession, manufacturing or disposing of flammable or combustible materials, incendiary devices, or explosives with the intent to commit arson; and misdemeanor reckless burning of personal property. Montes faces allegations of violating probation, engaging in violent conduct indicating a serious danger to society, and having a history of prior felony convictions. His statutory bail is $400,000, and if convicted as charged, he faces up to 14 years in prison.
Looting and Price-Gouging Crackdown
Hochman also spoke about the office’s efforts to crack down on looting and price-gouging in the wake of the massive Palisades and Eaton fires. He urged individuals and companies to stop engaging in such activities, warning that those caught will be prosecuted and publicly identified as criminals. He also advised people to do their research before donating to organizations claiming to be gathering resources to assist wildfire victims, warning of scams involving fake charities.
Conclusion
The recent arrests and charges made in connection with the small fires in LA County serve as a reminder of the importance of public safety and the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions. As the investigation continues, it is crucial that authorities remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts to prevent further incidents and bring those responsible to justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the current status of the two major blazes in LA County?
The fires are still ongoing, with crews working to contain and extinguish the flames. - How many people have been charged in connection with the small fires in LA County?
Two more people have been taken into custody, bringing the total number of arrests to five. - What is the motive behind the small fires?
Some suspects have reportedly admitted to setting the fires for personal enjoyment, while others have claimed to have been motivated by a desire to cause chaos and destruction. - What is being done to address looting and price-gouging in the wake of the wildfires?
The LA County District Attorney’s Office is actively investigating and prosecuting cases of looting and price-gouging, and has warned individuals and companies to stop engaging in such activities.
