Jury deadlocks in federal trial of man accused of starting deadly Palisades Fire in Los Angeles
Jurors in the federal trial of Jonathan Rinderknecht, accused of starting the 2025 Palisades Fire, told a judge they are deadlocked after two days.
TL;DR
- The jury in the federal trial of Jonathan Rinderknecht, accused of starting the 2025 Palisades Fire, has reported being deadlocked.
- The panel sent two notes to the judge, first indicating a verdict was reached, then stating they were at a standstill.
- The judge offered assistance, but the jury stated nothing the court could do would help them reach a unanimous verdict.
- Rinderknecht is charged with destruction of property by means of fire and arson.
- Prosecutors allege Rinderknecht was motivated by anger and resentment towards the wealthy.
- The defense argues there is no physical evidence linking Rinderknecht to the fire.
- The Palisades Fire burned over 23,000 acres and destroyed approximately 6,800 structures.