Posted on 12/13/2007 3:58:01 PM PST by BurbankKarl
Los Angeles County sheriff's arson investigators said today that they were making a series of arrests in connection with a wind-driven brush fire that destroyed dozens of homes Thanksgiving weekend as it swept through Corral Canyon in Malibu.
The suspects range in age from 18 to 27, said sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore. He said investigators would disclose the identities of the men at a news conference this afternoon at the Sheriff's Department bureau in Monterey Park.
Authorities said the suspects were having an illegal late-night campfire near a cave when the blaze broke out. Investigators found evidence such as alcohol containers, food wrappers and bundled fire logs, Whitmore said. The next step was finding where the items came from.
"Investigators began checking local businesses for any information regarding the purchase of these items," Whitmore said. They quickly got their break at a nearby supermarket.
"They checked store receipts at a Ralphs market in Malibu and found one revealed a possible purchase of the items in question," Whitmore said. "With probable cause, they then got a search warrant allowing investigators to retrieve information from the debit card which authorities believe was used to purchase the items."
That information led them to a witness," he said.
(Excerpt) Read more at latimes.com ...
Secondly, this is at the beach MALIBU is a beach! Yes theres hills, But this particular area is off the beach.
They thought they turned off the fire. Whos to say another group didnt show up after them?? (remember this is a party spot) AND NO California does not all of a sudden go around and start posting flyer's or signs... they may give a warning to the ‘neighborhood’ about the status but they aren't going to announce it in the news. imagine “If you’re in the Malibu area where the bonfire pits are located off the beach, don't even think about using them! Santa Ana Winds are picking up and it may cause a serious blaze that may get out of control... and you will be charged with arson”.
Sorry it doesnt work that way.
They knew or should have known better??? So you’re saying that they should be charged with arson because ‘they knew better’... I never said dont take responsibility for actions. I said they are not criminals - accidents happen. And if they are charged they shouldnt be charged as felons! But they should be punished and take responsibility. There’s probation, community service etc.
The system in LA is so bad .. innocent people get locked up and guilty people walk away...
No one died.
Perhaps you should try living in Switzerland, then you could hear "Thank you for shopping at *******#38675534"
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.