Convicted arsonist now accused of starting string of fires in North Hollywood

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A man accused of setting a string of fires in North Hollywood on Wednesday was recently released from prison for arson.

David A. Rivas made a brief court appearance Friday afternoon and was charged with seven counts of arson.

Rivas pleaded not guilty and is due back in court in Van Nuys on Nov. 10.

Court records show Rivas was charged with 16 counts of arson in 2021, but was released Oct. 7, according to multiple law enforcement sources.

On Wednesday, the Los Angeles Fire Department said 11 fires erupted within an hour around the same area. Rivas was one of two people detained.