Men plead no contest in deadly California warehouse fire

[TexasTowelie]

OAKLAND, Calif. — Two men charged in a California warehouse fire that killed 36 people agreed to a plea deal Tuesday during an emotional hearing where the judge read the name of each victim aloud, bringing tears from loved ones in the courtroom.

Under the terms of a plea agreement, Derick Almena and Max Harris each pleaded no contest to 36 counts of involuntary manslaughter involving the 2016 blaze at a dilapidated Oakland warehouse known as the “Ghost Ship” during an unlicensed concert.

Almena could be sentenced to nine years in prison and Harris could face a six-year term when a judge sentences them next month.

The men could have faced life in prison if convicted at a trial. Now, with good behavior, they are only expected to serve half their sentences after spending a year in jail.

Read more: https://www.dentonrc.com/ap/national/men-plead-no-contest-in-deadly-california-warehouse-fire/article_96629918-a39b-5fda-8e89-dd21f9ac199b.html

[lapfog_1]

1. Not sure that 3 to 4.5 years each

is enough time in prison for this crime of negligence.

It was egregious.

[Mr.Bill]

2. What I can't understand is the owner of the building

has not been charged with any crime. She will be destroyed by lawsuits, though, I think.

[ailsagirl]

3. Slap on the wrist