Eric Ridenour, the man accused of setting fire to two churches in Douglas, Arizona, has been found guilty on all six counts, including arson and hate crimes, as reported by ABC15. The conviction follows Ridenour's attempt to destroy both the First Presbyterian Church and St. Stephen's Episcopal Church because the former was led by a woman, and the latter by a gay man, Ridenour deemed these churches an insult against what he perceived as God's will.
During the course of the trial, clear-cut evidence was presented, including surveillance footage of Ridenour at the scene and video of him purchasing the same type of charcoal lighter fluid found at one of the arson sites; jurors found this evidence compelling, and Glenn Hoffman, the jury's foreman, expressed his disbelief at Ridenour's actions considering his self-professed adherence to the Bible yet his resulting acts were of such a nature that portrayed evil and hateful intent, speaking to what he believes is a contradiction in Ridenour's faith and actions. Both azfamily.com and ABC15 highlighted testimony from the clergy of the targeted churches, including Reverend John Caleb Collins of St. Stephen's, who condemned Ridenour's justifications and spoke of his prayers for Ridenour's repentance.
Acting in his own defense, Ridenour quoted scripture during the trial and questioned the fairness of the proceedings, specifically criticizing the oath-taking requirement for witnesses which included Reverend Collins and Pastor Peggy Christiansen of First Presbyterian. As reported by azfamily.com, Assistant U.S. Attorney Austin Fenwick argued the irrefutable nature of the video evidence to the jury, substantiating Ridenour's presence and actions at the crime scenes. The Right Rev. Jennifer Reddall, Episcopal Bishop of Arizona, who was present for the trial, expressed her hope for Ridenour's conviction to ensure the safety of the community.
If sentenced to the fullest extent for his crimes, Ridenour could face up to 130 years in prison, with Judge Scott Rash set, to deliver his sentence on October 22, 2024. With both congregations reeling from the attack on their historic sanctuaries, the communities affected await the sentencing as a possible closure to this unsettling episode and for the hope in some measure of justice to be established, which will serve as an enduring testament against hate fueled by misguided beliefs.
