Suspected Palisades firebug due back in federal court Thursday

Suspected Palisades firebug due back in federal court Thursday


The suspected Florida firebug accused of starting the blaze that turned into the devastating Palisades Fire is due back in federal court on Thursday morning.

French-born Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, is due before a judge in Orlando — where he was arrested Tuesday — to discuss any possible bond, Fox 35 Orlando reported.

The Biden-supporting Uber driver is accused of “maliciously” starting the Palisades Fire on New Year’s Day, which — after burning for weeks — left 12 people dead, destroyed nearly 7,000 homes and businesses and caused about $150 billion in damages.


Rinderknecht is accused of setting a brushfire on Jan. 1 that was put out, but started again and ignited the raging Palisades inferno, which left 12 people dead and caused about $150 billion in damages. AFP via Getty Images

Jonathan Rinderknecht posed after his arrest on charges that he intentionally ignited the Pacific Palisades Fire.
Palisades firebug Jonathan Rinderknecht reportedly listened to a disturbing French rap song repeatedly before allegedly setting the “malicious” fire in California. via REUTERS

He made his initial appearance on Wednesday, where he acknowledged the hefty charges he’s facing.

Shackled at the ankles and wearing shorts and a T-shirt, he quietly told the judge that he was not under the influence and did not have mental issues, according to WKMG.

He was arrested in Florida on Tuesday and eventually will be transferred back to California to stand trial. 

Rinderknecht, who officials said has no criminal history, faces charges including malicious destruction by means of fire.

Federal arson charges already carry steep mandatory minimum sentences that range from five to 20 years, but are even stricter if it leads to injury or death.

Prosecutors could even seek the death penalty if he’s convicted of intentionally starting the fire.



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