The Emporia man accused of aggravated arson and illegal activity against law enforcement will have his next court hearing before the month is out.
Jesus Hinostroza Jr had his first appearance in Lyon County District Court on Wednesday and was set for a preliminary hearing May 28. During Wednesday’s hearing, Steve Atherton was appointed as defense attorney but he has already filed paperwork to withdraw from the case, citing an unspecified conflict.
Hinostroza was charged with aggravated arson, battery on law enforcement and interference with law enforcement after a fire at 118 West on Sunday. Two people were inside the house when Hinostroza allegedly set fire to a bedroom. The fire was limited to the bedroom after work by Emporia Fire, but there was smoke damage throughout the home and Emporia Fire had to dig into a ceiling to put out hot spots before they could finish their work.
