Conviction Secured in South County Attempted Murder, Arson

Yesterday in Department 22 of the South County Justice Center, TCDA prosecutors secured a criminal conviction against Charles Joseph Fisher, age 51, for the attempted murder of multiple victims and arson of a residence.

In the evening of June 14, 2023, Fisher, in violation of a restraining order, barged into a Porterville residence and doused an adult female victim with what was discovered to be gasoline. Fisher then proceeded to make his way to the exterior of the residence where he lit a fire using gasoline directly under the bedroom window of the victim. After seeing Fisher running away from the scene, a neighbor immediately alerted the residents of the fire, and the flames were extinguished. Fisher returned to the residence a few hours later and was taken into custody. During the incident, the house was occupied by multiple people, including a young child.

At trial, Fisher was convicted of three counts of attempted premeditated murder, one count of first-degree residential burglary with person present, one count of arson of an inhabited structure or property, one count of attempt to burn, two counts of stalking, and one count of contempt of court. The jury also found true the aggravated factors that the defendant took advantage of a position of trust, that the victims were particularly vulnerable, and that the crimes alleged violent conduct.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 4, 2024, in Department 22 where Fisher faces life in prison.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Victoria Frazer and was investigated by the Porterville Police Department.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Assistant District Attorney Jessica Weatherly (559) 701-2000