NEWPORT BEACH : Arson at Rug Shop Admitted; Man Held

An Irvine man was arrested Wednesday morning after he admitted burning down a Persian rug store last month for “religious and political reasons,” according to police.

Assatoor Odjaghian, 42, walked into the police station and told investigators that he had destroyed Orient Handel, which stocked hundreds of imported rugs, police said.

Although some of Odjaghian’s statements “didn’t make sense,” police said, they believe that he set the fire because he “had intimate knowledge of” the Feb. 19 arson.

In addition to the man’s statements, police said they found physical evidence that links Odjaghian to the crime. Investigators declined to say where they found the evidence or what it was.

“We don’t think we’re dealing with an international terrorist here . . . but we’re handling this as a criminal investigation,” Sgt. Andy Gonis said.

Hashem Kermani, 50, the Orient Handel owner, apparently has had no contact with Odjaghian, who told police he was an unemployed architect. Police were unable to explain the political or religious motivation in setting the fire at Orient Handel, 2421 E. Coast Highway in Corona del Mar.

Odjaghian was booked into Newport Beach City Jail on suspicion of arson and shooting at dwellings. He is being held in lieu of $10,000 bail and is scheduled for arraignment Friday.