As devastating wildfires have ravaged Los Angeles County, authorities have had to contend with multiple cases of arson. At least eight people have been arrested for setting new, small fires in the days since the larger fires erupted, including suspects setting trees, bushes, leaves, and trash ablaze.
One woman was arrested after allegedly setting multiple piles of rubbish and trash on fire, admitting to setting fires and saying she enjoyed causing chaos and destruction. Another suspect was arrested for setting a fire in a tree, admitting to starting the fire because he liked the smell of burning leaves.
The string of arrests comes as authorities continue to investigate the causes of the larger wildfires, combing the wreckage for clues. Authorities have not shared any specific information to suggest any individuals arrested for arson caused major fires.
Arson-caused wildfires burned around 44,609 acres in 2020, according to Cal Fire officials. It is not unusual to see other crimes like arson in the aftermath of a natural disaster, said Bob Duval, a fire investigator and Northeast Regional Director for the National Fire Protection Association.
Some 40 cases of looting have also been identified, and authorities have vowed to prosecute arson and other crimes committed during the wildfires to the fullest extent possible. Punishments for arson can range from up to nine years in prison for causing great bodily injury to another person, to up to eight years for burning an inhabited structure or property.
The motives behind arson can vary, but may include mental health challenges, anger, revenge, trying to make a statement, or mischief and blowing off steam. Some cases may be attention-seeking, while others may stem from a strong mental health component.