Judge declares mistrial in arson trial of Palisades Fire suspect

Key Points:

• A mistrial was declared in the arson case against Jonathan Rinderknecht, accused of starting the Palisades Fire, after the jury deadlocked 10-2 in favor of acquittal on three federal charges including arson and malicious destruction by fire.
• The jury reported being deeply divided and unwilling to change their opinions, prompting Judge Anne Hwang to dismiss them to avoid coercion, despite prosecution's request for extended deliberations.
• A juror expressed disappointment over the inability to reach a verdict, citing insufficient evidence to prove Rinderknecht started the initial fire and highlighting concerns about shared negligence.
• Defense attorney Steve Haney viewed the vote split as a strong indication of his client's innocence, while federal prosecutors announced plans to retry the case, insisting the evidence against Rinderknecht is strong.
• The Palisades Fire, which began on January 1, 2025, caused 12 deaths and destroyed thousands of homes in Pacific Palisades and Malibu; Rinderknecht has pleaded not guilty, and the trial included extensive testimony over eight days before the jury's 13 hours of deliberation.