San Francisco tow operator indicted for arson conspiracy

A federal grand jury has indicted San Francisco tow truck operator Jose Vicente Badillo for conspiracy to commit arson. He and four co-conspirators allegedly set fire to at least six rival tow trucks between April and October 2023. The indictment claims Badillo orchestrated the fires to gain business advantages over competitors. This case adds to Badillo's legal troubles, which include charges of auto insurance fraud and welfare fraud involving his partner, Abigail Fuentes. Badillo is scheduled for arraignment on March 20. If convicted on all charges, he could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.