CRIPPLE CREEK – Two of the three suspects accused of starting the devastating Chateau Fire in Teller County appeared in court on October 1st. Both David Renfrow and Keegan Owens waived their right to the hearing and will return on November 19th, for arraignment.
Defense attorneys indicated in court that they might be working to strike a plea deal with prosecutors, but no details about a possible deal were talked about in court.
Renfrow, Owens and a 17-year-old were all arrested on First Degree Arson charges several days after the Chateau Fire started on June 29th.
Investigators say the group was camping when they lit an illegal campfire during Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in Teller County. They said they left the area when they were spooked by a bear, and told investigators they thought the fire was out before they left.
If you were affected by the High Chateau Fire, you may be entitled to reimbursement through means of restitution. Restitution includes any out of pocket expenses that individuals have expended as a direct result of an offender’s criminal conduct.
Restitution does not include pain and suffering of any sort. What it would cover is any type of damage to property, be it housing or land.
It also covers Individuals who were evacuated and have additional cost of living expenses for that time period of evacuation, like hotels or travel expenses. Agencies who advanced money or provided services for those individuals who were affected can also see restitution.
State and Governmental agencies that have expenses to repair signs, roads, or any other property owned by the State or County also qualify for restitution.
If you believe you fall into any of these categories or think you are a victim in another way please pick up a Victim Impact Statement from the District Attorney’s Office in either Teller County located at 112 A Street; Cripple Creek, CO 80813 or El Paso County located at 105 East Vermijo Avenue; Colorado Springs, CO 80903. If you are unsure or have questions pertaining to this process, please call the Senior Restitution Coordinator, Shannon Cropper, at 719-520-6544.
