A federal judge on Tuesday, Nov. 18, denied a request that the man accused of starting the Palisades fire be released on bond — citing concerns about his mental health, relationship with family members and apparent purchase of a firearm.

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Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, will remain in custody until his trial begins, tentatively scheduled for April.

U.S. Judge Rozella A. Oliver’s ruling came after Rinderknecht’s father, Joel Rinderknecht, testified that despite prior issues, his family members were fully supporting the defendant because they believe he is innocent and unjustly accused.

Rinderknecht’s attorney, Steve Haney, called the case “nothing but a misrepresentation and for my client to be detained for five months because of a wafer-thin indictment” is unjust.

“His name

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