Bobby Salazar, the Fresno restaurant owner and salsa maker accused of arson, paid his $1 million bond and hired a private attorney, court records show.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Erica Grosjean set Monday as the deadline for Salazar to comply with both requirements or face a return to jail.

In a brief appearance at the downtown Fresno federal courthouse Monday, Salazar confirmed he had hired new private counsel. He was accompanied by his wife, Lucy Ruiz.

Bond Secured With Property in Arson Case

The bond was secured with property, Grosjean said in court. By paying it, Salazar had his ankle monitor removed.

Salazar faces two counts of arson in connection with an alleged insurance fraud scheme for the 2024 fire that destroyed his eponymous restaurant on Blackstone Avenue. He also faces a sepa

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