Modesto Resident Arrested On Vandalism And DUI Charges

Sonora, CA — 25 year old Justin Lee Bates of Modesto was arrested and booked into the Tuolumne County Jail Wednesday evening on charges of felony arson, felony vandalism and driving under the influence.

Shortly after 7:30 Sheriff´s deputies were dispatched to a report of a car set on fire in the 18100 block of 6th Ave. in Jamestown. Apparently there had been an altercation between Bates and the owner of the vehicle several hours earlier.

Bates returned and according to witnesses he threw a burning object at the vehicle. An explosion ensued. The vehicle´s owner was able to extinguish the majority of the fire prior to the arrival of firefighters.

Several hours later Bates was stopped by Sonora Police on a DUI charge. Deputies learned of the stop over their scanner and responded to the scene. After confirming Bates´ identity he was arrested.

Written by Bill Johnson