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Teen accused in wildfires pleads not guilty

A mental competency hearing is scheduled Wednesday for the girl accused of starting the Cocos Fire in May.
SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - A 13-year-old girl was found mentally competent Wednesday to stand trial on arson charges in the Cocos Fire.


The girl, identified as "Cheyenne," pleaded not guilty to five charges, including three felony arson-related charges for fires set on May 14 in San Marcos. She also faces two charges for fires set the day prior.


It remains unclear how she was identified as a suspect. 


She was ordered to stand trial after a three-week mental competency evaluation. Also Wednesday, the girl's parents were notified they may be responsible for damages in the fire. The Cocos Fire cost approximately $12 million to fight. It was unclear how much restitution they could be liable for.

The Cocos Fire blackened nearly 2,000 acres and destroyed 40 structures.

She faces 13 years, 8 months in prison if convicted of all charges.


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