Jonathan Rinderknecht, 30, pleaded not guilty to reduced federal charges on Wednesday, weeks before his second trial is set to begin for his alleged role in starting the devastating Palisades Fire. The initial case against Rinderknecht concluded in June with a hung jury.
Rinderknecht appeared in court in a beige jumpsuit, his face obscured by a beard, with shackles around his waist. He confirmed he understood the charges against him, responding "Yes" when asked by the judge.
The first count in the revised indictment accuses Rinderknecht of starting the Lachman Fire on New Year's Day 2025. The second count alleges he caused the destruction that followed when that blaze reignited and became the Palisades Fire. A third count, for setting timber on fire, was dropped by prosecutors last week.
Outside the courthouse, Rinderknecht's attorney, Steven Haney, commented on the prosecution's altered strategy. "They changed their charging so they could change the playing field and have a better chance for conviction for the second trial," Haney said. He expressed confidence that the prosecution would face similar challenges in the upcoming trial as they did in the first.
During the initial trial, prosecutors attempted to link Rinderknecht to both fires. Evidence presented included cellphone records, surveillance footage, and Rinderknecht's behavior after the blaze, which prosecutors characterized as suspicious. A green Bic lighter, allegedly used by Rinderknecht, was reportedly found in his car. Rinderknecht had also repeatedly called 911 after the fire erupted.
However, the first jury was deadlocked 10-2 in favor of acquittal. "There is no direct evidence that he started a fire on January 1st. That’s the challenge. Its all circumstantial," Haney stated after the mistrial. One juror told reporters after the trial that they felt the prosecution's case was not convincing.
The Palisades Fire destroyed thousands of homes in Pacific Palisades and parts of Malibu. The event resulted in 12 fatalities and an estimated $150 billion in damages. Haney has referred to his client as a "scapegoat," and some public criticism has been directed at the fire department and government officials regarding alleged mismanagement. Mayor Karen Bass was reportedly out of the country when the fire began, despite prior wind warnings.
The judge has ruled that the defense cannot present evidence or arguments regarding the city's response to the fire, stating it is not a valid defense.
Rinderknecht's new trial date has been moved from October 19 to November 2. He remains in custody without bail. Haney indicated that Rinderknecht is feeling hopeful about the prospect of a second trial, despite facing substantial prison time.