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Man accused of starting Line Fire pleads not guilty to arson
The Line Fire in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains forced evacuations for nearby neighborhoods.
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Apu Gomes
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Getty Images
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Topline:
Justin Wayne Halstenberg, the man accused of intentionally starting the Line Fire in San Bernardino County, pleaded not guilty to arson charges on Tuesday.
Why it matters: San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson told KVCR, LAist’s sister station, that the fire has caused more than $7 million in damages so far, injured a firefighter, and destroyed a popular lookout.
Why now: Halstenberg is facing 11 counts, including aggravated arson, arson causing great bodily injury, and arson of forest land.
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The backstory: Authorities allege that the 34-year-old from Norco tried to ignite the fire, which has burned more than 39,000 acres, three times.
What's next: He’s due back in court for a hearing next week.
Additional reporting from KVCR's Anthony Victoria
Go deeper: Read more about the fire and Halstenberg’s arrest.
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