A federal grand jury in Puerto Rico has indicted Danielle Bertothy, a 36-year-old woman from St. Peters, Missouri, on charges of arson. The indictment alleges that on January 2, 2025, Bertothy intentionally set fire to a commercial building located at Road 3301 KM 2.9 Combate Beach in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico. The property included a retail store, restaurant, bar, and hotel.
"This defendant will be held accountable for her dangerous actions that caused significant damage and put many lives at risk," stated W. Stephen Muldrow, the United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. He emphasized the commitment of federal and local law enforcement to enforce laws against violent crimes.
Christopher A. Robinson, Special Agent in Charge of ATF Miami Field Division, remarked on the importance of addressing destructive criminal behavior: "This arrest shows the commitment of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in the fight against violent as well as destructive criminal behavior."
Bertothy faces charges under 18 U.S.C. § 844(i) for using fire to destroy a building affecting interstate commerce. She is scheduled for an initial court appearance on January 17 before a magistrate judge in Missouri's Eastern District Court. If convicted, she could receive a minimum sentence of five years up to twenty years in prison.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Puerto Rico Police Bureau (PRPB). The collaboration involved assistance from several agencies including the Puerto Rico Department of Justice District Attorney’s Office and PRPB-Explosives Unit.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Gottfried, Jeannette Collazo, and Corinne Cordero-Romo are leading the prosecution efforts.
An indictment serves as an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.
