Jury selection begins today in the federal arson trial tied to the devastating Palisades Fire. Prosecutors allege that Jonathan Rinderknecht intentionally started the Lachman Fire on January 1, 2025. Investigators say the fire reignited six days later and grew into the Palisades Fire, which killed 12 people and destroyed nearly 7,000 homes.
Rinderknecht later moved to Florida and was arrested nine months after the blaze. He has been indicted on federal charges including destruction of property by means of fire, arson affecting property used in interstate commerce, and setting timber afire. Authorities contend his actions ultimately led to one of Southern California’s deadliest and most destructive wildfires.
Rinderknecht has pleaded not guilty to all charges. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 45 years in federal prison. The trial is expected to last between seven and eleven days, with jurors hearing evidence and testimony regarding the fire’s origin and spread.
