This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Arson Suspect's Mother Wanted in Germany On 19 Counts of Fraud
Photo by gcpics via Shutterstock
Dorothee Burkhart, the mother of suspected spree arsonist Harry Burkhart, is "wanted in Germany on 19 counts of fraud, most stemming from allegations that she bilked apartment renters out of security deposits," reports City News Service. An arrest warrant was issued in Germany in 2007.
Details about Dorothee Burkhart's extradition process were revealed today via federal court papers unsealed today.
Dorothee Burkhart is now scheduled to return to court Friday for a hearing. Today in court, she said "she needs time to hire an attorney, and does not want a public defender."
In a bizarre twist, the LA Weekly is reporting that a Dorothee Burkhart is affiliated with a local massage service website, and that the domain registration for the site lists the same address that is the shared home of both Burkharts.
In the meantime, her son Harry, 24, is facing one charge of arson for his alleged role in the string of 53 carport fires set in Los Angeles over New Year's weekend. As authorities continue to investigate the arson spree, it is likely Burkhart will face multiple counts of arson, should they connect him to the crimes.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
