Man, 18, Pleads Not Guilty To Committing Arson During Huntington Beach Disturbance
WESTMINSTER (CBSLA.com) — An 18-year-old man pleaded not guilty Thursday to committing arson during a major disturbance in Huntington Beach after the U.S. Open of Surfing.
Illario Niko Johnson, of Chino, was arrested Wednesday for felony arson, inciting a riot, participating in unlawful assembly and refusing to disperse when ordered.
With the help of social media videos and photos, police were able to identify Johnson as the person who allegedly started the fires along Main Street during the disturbance Sunday night.
More than 250 police officers were called to break up the unruly crowd who reportedly took part in countless fights, burglary, vandalism, arson and attempted looting at a bicycle store.
Fullerton firefighter, 30-year-old Michael John Lytle, was arrested Sunday and booked on suspicion of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest, officials said.
Chase Scott Christmas, 19, of Simi Valley pleaded not guilty Tuesday to felony vandalism and misdemeanor counts of inciting a riot and refusal to disperse. If convicted, Christmas could face up to three years in prison.
Police were looking for the man who was caught on camera using a stop sign to break a display window at Easyrider Bike Shop at 328 Main St.
Anyone with more information about the suspect or any other possible suspects is asked to call Sgt. Jerry Abrahams (714)536-5649 or (714)375-5066 or email hbpdfiles@gmail.com.
RELATED STORIES:
Huntington Police Use Social Media To Make Arson Arrest In US Open Of Surfing Disturbance
'Major' Disturbance Reported In Huntington Beach Following US Open Of Surfing
Huntington Beach Police Continue To Search For Suspects In US Open Melee
Fullerton Firefighter Arrested In Violence, Vandalism After US Open Of Surfing
(©2013 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)
