Anthony Alan Chance, 58, from Citrus Heights, California, has been sentenced to 4 years and 8 months in state prison for arson and burglary related to the Ridge Lifeline Church in Paradise. This follows his arrest on December 28, 2023, and subsequent court proceedings, with the sentence delivered by Judge Corie J. Caraway on January 8, 2025.
The case involved Chance breaking into the church, setting a small fire in the kitchen, and leaving threatening notes demanding the church remain unlocked. According to Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey, Chance claimed he acted on divine instruction, reflecting a troubled motivation.
Chance’s criminal history includes fire-related offenses dating back to 2012. After spending nearly 13 months in Butte County Jail, where he was evaluated and found competent to stand trial, he was transferred to state prison. He will also be listed on the California Arson Registry and has received credit for time already served.
