PLACERVILLE —
An El Dorado County jury convicted on January 30, an Jason David Robinette on two counts of arson for setting fires in the El Dorado National Forest on August 6, 2024. The Mosquito and Crozier Fires, ignited near Mosquito Road and Crozier Road, caused significant damage. Nearly 2,000 acres were ablaze and forced the evacuation of 2,000 residents. Robinette faces up to 7 years and 4 months in prison, with felony strikes attached to the conviction. No structures were reported lost and no injuries were reported by Cal Fire.
The case, which spanned six court days, was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Michael Lay, with felony charges filed by Deputy District Attorney Jay Linden. Key evidence was provided by CAL FIRE Amador-El Dorado Unit, U.S. Forest Service and the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, which included testimonies and findings linking Robinette to the fires. A major find in the investigation was the discovery of Robinette’s personal belongings near the fire’s origin and his presence near the site shortly after the fires started.
Sentencing is set for March 14, in Department 1.
Originally posted by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office.