E. Martin Estrada, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California
A New Mexico man received a 51-month sentence in federal prison for setting fire to a San Bernardino County church and preschool. Jonathan A. Barajas Nava, 37, from Albuquerque, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John F. Walter, who also mandated $7,008 in restitution.
Nava pleaded guilty on January 17 to damaging religious property. The incident occurred on April 24, 2024, when Nava set the fire at the Retreat Church and Yucaipa Christian Preschool in Yucaipa. He purchased gasoline, poured it on the church's front door, and ignited it with an open flame.
The fire caused damage to the church’s interior carpet, doorframe seal, and an outdoor mat. Individuals inside, including staff and children, had to evacuate the premises. Later, Nava attempted to ignite a fire at a nearby strip mall, although it resulted in no damage. He was apprehended on the same day.
Prosecutors stated in a memorandum, "This arson was planned and targeted,” adding that "[Nava] did not commit this crime in the heat of passion." In his plea agreement, Nava admitted that the arson was motivated by the church's religious nature.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection; and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Dahlquist of the Riverside Branch Office prosecuted the case.
