Derick Almena and Max Harris have been in jail since they were charged with involuntary manslaughter in June 2017, six months after people at an electronic music show struggled to escape the so-called Ghost Ship warehouse in Oakland.Almena, 49, is accused of illegally converting the industrial building into an unlicensed entertainment venue and artist live-work space, while Harris, 29, allegedly collected rent and scheduled concerts.
The cause of the blaze has never been determined, which the men's attorneys have said will be a central argument of their defense. Opening statements in their trial were expected to begin Tuesday. Judge James Cramer said he rejected the deal because he felt Almena did not show remorse. Prosecutors insisted the plea bargains were a package deal, so Cramer reluctantly rejected Harris' agreement as well, though the judge said he felt Harris was remorseful.The judge has issued a gag order that prevents attorneys from discussing the case publicly.
City codes require commercial buildings to be inspected annually, but the Oakland Fire Department and city officials said they could find no records of inspectors checking the building.
Who owned the building... Who inspected the building....Who hooked power up to the building... Scapegoats....
I hope they get out of prison when they are about 70 years old....
It was a perfect storm of ignorance of these two men, and Oakland officials that turned a blind to what was going on.
.alamedacountyda When the government has to have someone to blame because the economy is unsustainable & the government has not upheld its social obligations, They persecuted poor, innocent people. Who is in jail for the CAMPFIRE 🔥buttecounty california? No one. shithappens
Albert k.jj
I find it hard to believe that either of these would be involved in any crime. Ever. latimes Oakland
It’s about time!
Tweakers