Here in Malibu: Malibu fire arrests

Malibu fire arrests

Veronique de Turenne Bio • Email

Andrew Blankstein has the story in the LAT.

Arrested in the sweep: Brian Allen Anderson, 22, William Thomas Coppock, 23, Brian David Franks, 27, all of Los Angeles; as well as Eric Matthew Ullman, 18, and Dean Allen Lavorante, 19, both of Culver City, said sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore.
Officials in the Los Angeles district attorney's office said each had been charged with two felony counts: recklessly causing a fire resulting in great bodily injury and recklessly causing a fire to an inhabited structure.

Because the blaze began in an area that had been declared in a state of emergency during the October firestorm, the men could face additional time if they are convicted. In all, prosecutors could seek as many as 10 years in prison.

Cops checked with local businesses that sell firewood and picnic supplies, and matched receipts to items found near the point of origin in Corral Canyon.

A search warrant was issued and, bolstered by witness statements, the five men are being held on suspicion of starting the fire.

View from the Paradise Cove bluff, near dawn on Nov. 24.

December 13, 2007 08:18 PM • Native Intelligence • Email the editor

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