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Teen Pleads Not Guilty to Arson, Hate Crimes

1/21/2026

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Story summary
  • Stephen Spencer Pittman, 19, appeared in federal court in Jackson, Mississippi, on January 21, pleading not guilty to arson for the January 10 Beth Israel Congregation fire.
  • He remains detained until the February 23 trial, despite his attorney's claim that he poses no threat.
  • The court denied bail because Pittman faces federal and state charges including hate crime enhancements.