As Southern California grapples with devastating wildfires, looting, and the tireless efforts of firefighters, Los Angeles County has seen a surge in arson-related arrests. Two men face felony arson charges in separate incidents over the weekend, adding to the ten others recently charged with arson or looting amidst the crisis.

Jaime Mota, 37, is accused of igniting a pallet fire in the City of Industry on Saturday, which spread to a truck and nearby vegetation. He is currently held on $350,000 bail. In Irwindale, 27-year-old Ruben Michael Montes faces charges for allegedly setting a fire under the I-605 overpass. Already on probation, Montes faces a potential 14-year sentence if convicted. His bail is set at $400,000.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized the commitment to holding those responsible for these crimes accountable, stating, "We owe it to the victims of these fires, as well as the brave first responders, to ensure justice is served." He warned potential arsonists that they will face the full force of the law.

Hochman highlighted the ongoing efforts to combat criminal activity during the wildfires, referencing the recent charges against other individuals for looting and arson. He underscored the importance of community safety and security amidst the crisis, stating that his office will "put relentless pressure on those who threaten the safety and security of our county."

In a separate incident, actor Brian J. White and neighbors apprehended a man allegedly carrying a blowtorch through their neighborhood. Additionally, a homeless man in Azusa was arrested after allegedly starting a brush fire in a park, with neighbors intervening until police arrived. Azusa police urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

The ongoing wildfires have tragically claimed at least 24 lives, and authorities expect that number to increase. District Attorneys Hochman and Todd Spitzer of Orange County have jointly requested Governor Gavin Newsom to reclassify looting as a felony in response to the crisis.