Eight charged in los angeles wildfires for arson and looting

LOS ANGELES, California — Eight individuals face charges for alleged crimes during Los Angeles County’s wildfires, including arson and looting, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. The incidents occurred in several cities, including South Gate and Malibu.

Luis Felipe Gudino, a 27-year-old from South Gate, California, is charged with felony arson during a state of emergency. He allegedly ignited a couch, causing a fire that damaged a utility pole and an apartment building. Gudino is held on $350,000 bail and faces up to seven years in prison if convicted, according to the South Gate Police Department.

Richard Alexander Peterson, a 35-year-old from South Gate, California, faces a third strike sentence for allegedly setting a Christmas tree on fire outside a motel. He is held on $1,350,000 bail and could face 25 years to life in prison, stated the South Gate Police Department.

Omar Lopez, a 34-year-old from Huntington Park, California, is charged with two counts of felony arson. He allegedly set fire to a Christmas tree and a larger tree in a courtyard. Lopez pleaded not guilty and is held on $350,000 bail, according to the Huntington Park Police Department.

District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman emphasized accountability, stating, “To anyone who believes they can use this disaster as a cover for criminal activity, let this be your warning: You will be caught, and you will be held accountable.”