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New trial date set for Uber Driver accused of starting Palisades Fire
This undated photo provided by the US Attorney's Office shows Jonathan Rinderknecht, a suspect in the Palisades Fire.
Topline:
An April 21 trial date has been set for Jonathan Rinderknecht, the man accused of starting a fire which developed into the Palisades Fire.
Why now: An initial trial date was set for next month, but in a request filed last week, Rinderknecht’s lawyer asked for more time to prepare his case.
The backstory: The 29-year-old rideshare driver was arrested in October for allegedly starting the fire. He pleaded not guilty to all three federal felony charges. If convicted Rinderknecht would face up to 45 years in prison.
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What's next: A pretrial hearing is set for Nov. 18 in downtown Los Angeles.
Go deeper: Uber driver charged in connection with starting the Palisades Fire
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
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