Huntington Police Use Social Media To Make Arson Arrest In US Open Of Surfing Disturbance
HUNTINGTON BEACH (CBSLA.com) — Huntington Beach Police Wednesday announced the arrest of a suspect they said committed arson during the post US Open of Surfing disturbance.
The Sunday night disturbance in downtown Huntington Beach included acts of vandalism, countless fights, thefts, burglary, arson and attempted looting at a bicycle store.
With the help of social media videos and photos, police identified 18-year-old Illario Niko Johnson of Chino as someone who reportedly set fires on Main Street.
The Orange County DA said Johnson set fire to a box of catalogs in the street.
Johnson was arrested Wednesday for felony arson, inciting a riot, participating in unlawful assembly and refusing to disperse when ordered.
The suspect was booked into the Huntington Beach City Jail and is being held on $20,000 bail.
More than 250 police officers, many from outside jurisdictions, were called to quell the Sunday disturbance.
On Wednesday, Huntington Beach Police said they were "greatly" appreciative of the assistance the public has provided in identifying suspects.
The DA announced Johnson would be arraigned Thursday.
