WEST COVINA, CA - Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman today announced felony charges against two men in connection with separate alleged acts of arson during the ongoing deadly fires sweeping across the region - one in the City of Industry and another in the city of Irwindale.

These cases come on the heels of charges against 10 individuals for looting and arson during the deadly fires, underscoring the Office's commitment to protecting communities during this crisis.

"The people of Los Angeles County are enduring unprecedented hardship as wildfires ravage our communities, displacing families, destroying homes, and tragically claiming lives," District Attorney Hochman said. "While first responders and residents work tirelessly to save lives and property, we will not tolerate individuals who exploit this tragedy by committing heinous acts of arson or looting. My Office continues to put relentless pressure on those who threaten the safety and security of our county."

Jaime Mota, 37, is charged with one count of felony arson of property and one count of felony arson during a state of emergency in case 25WCCF00048. Statutory bail for Moto is $350,000. If convicted as charged, he faces seven years in prison. His arraignment is set for today in Dept. 4 of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, West Covina Branch.

On Jan. 11 at approximately 2 p.m., Mota is accused of lighting a fire in the back of a warehouse/shipping yard at 15250 Stafford St. in the City of Industry, causing bushes, stacks of pallets and the back portion of a tractor-trailer to become enflamed.

Ruben Michael Montes, 27, is charged with one count each of felony arson during a state of emergency; felony possession, manufacturing, or disposing of flammable or combustible materials, incendiary devices, or explosives with the intent to commit arson; and misdemeanor reckless burning of personal property in case 25WCCF00047.

Montes faces allegations of violating probation after committing arson; engaging in violent conduct indicating a serious danger to society; and having a history of prior felony convictions. The statutory bail for defendant Montes is $400,000. If convicted as charged, he faces 14 years in prison. He is scheduled to be arraigned today in Dept. 4 of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, West Covina Branch.

On Jan. 12, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Montes is accused of starting a fire at the I-605 freeway underpass and Rivergrade Road in the city of Irwindale.

The District Attorney's Office recently charged 10 additional individuals with crimes related to looting and arson, signaling an unwavering focus on safeguarding the public and holding offenders accountable.

"We owe it to the victims of these fires, as well as the brave first responders risking their lives, to ensure justice is served," DA Hochman said. "Let this be a message to anyone contemplating similar acts - you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

The District Attorney's Office continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies, fire officials, and emergency response teams to investigate and prosecute cases related to the ongoing fires.

The charges filed in these cases are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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