Eric Duane Ridenour, a 58-year-old resident of Douglas, Arizona, was sentenced to 438 months in prison by United States District Judge Scott H. Rash. This sentencing follows his conviction on July 11, 2024, for six counts of arson and hate crimes related to the burning of two churches on May 22, 2023.
The incidents involved Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church, both located in Douglas's historic Church Square. This area is notable for housing churches from four different denominations: Southern Baptist, Presbyterian, Episcopal, and Methodist. Trial evidence indicated that Ridenour targeted these churches due to their inclusive policies allowing women and LGBTQ individuals in leadership roles. He was apprehended the day after the arsons.
United States Attorney Gary Restaino commented on the case: “This is a case about two separate arsons and the motivations behind each.” He added that such destruction is "abhorrent to our Constitution" and expressed support for healing within the Douglas community.
Brendan Iber, ATF Phoenix Special Agent in Charge, highlighted the collaborative efforts leading to Ridenour's sentencing: “We strongly share the same concerns of United States Attorney Restaino and the community.” He emphasized ATF's commitment to justice through its Certified Fire Investigators' expertise.
FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez acknowledged the lasting impact of Ridenour's actions: “There is no way to undo the damage Mr. Ridenour caused with his hateful and violent behavior.”
The prosecution aligns with a broader initiative led by U.S. Attorney Restaino focused on civil rights protection and hate crime prosecution. The Office has been active in community engagement through events like those under the Department’s United Against Hate initiative.
The investigation was carried out by several agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Douglas Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Austin Fenwick, Ben Goldberg, and Adam Rossi managed the prosecution.