The court of appeals affirmed a judgment of the district court. The court held that a requirement for an effect on interstate commerce in the statute prohibiting maliciously damaging a building by fire was met by a synagogue’s daycare center and gift shop.
Manuel Renteria was indicted, tried, and found guilty of maliciously damaging by fire Congregation Beth Am Synagogue in violation of 18 U.S.C. §844(i). Renteria appealed on several points and the appellate court reversed for an improper jury instruction.
