Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, pleaded not guilty Thursday to federal charges for allegedly sparking the deadly Palisades Fire in California, which killed 12 people and destroyed thousands of homes.

Federal officials say Rinderknecht started a smaller fire on January 1 that smoldered underground before reigniting nearly a week later, causing the massive blaze in Pacific Palisades and Malibu.

Arrested in Florida on October 7, he faces charges including arson affecting interstate commerce and setting timber on fire, carrying a potential 20-year sentence.

Rinderknecht’s attorney argued for bail, citing his lack of prior criminal history and mental health issues, while the judge kept him in custody due to concerns about his mental state and ability to attend future hearings, the AP has reported.

The defense also contends that firefighting efforts contributed to the fire’s spread, calling Rinderknecht a potential scapegoat, with trial scheduled for December 16.