San Francisco Towing Owner Indicted for Arson Conspiracy

Jose Vicente Badillo, owner of San Francisco towing companies Auto Towing and Specialty Towing, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for conspiring to commit arson by setting fire to competitors' tow trucks. The indictment accuses Badillo of orchestrating the burning of at least six tow trucks on four separate occasions throughout 2023, in an effort to drive more business to his companies and retaliate against competitors. Badillo is alleged to have directed others to carry out the arson, with incidents occurring in San Francisco and East Palo Alto. In addition to these charges, Badillo faces unrelated indictments for money laundering and insurance fraud. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 20.