Poway man arrested on suspicion of setting 11 arson fires
A 44-year-old Poway man has been arrested on suspicion of setting a series of arson fires in forest areas, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
Jonathan Benjamin Cohen is suspected of setting fires in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. He was arraigned Thursday in San Diego Superior Court in El Cajon.
“To commit arson during these drought conditions is an exceptionally heinous act and we will seek prosecution to the fullest extent under the law,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, director of Cal Fire.
Cohen was arrested Wednesday after an investigation by Cal Fire, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, and the San Diego County district attorney.
The 11 counts against Cohen include accusations of arson on forest lands and using an incendiary device. No details have been revealed.
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