FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Well-known Fresno restaurant owner Robert "Bobby" Salazar was released from the Fresno County Jail Friday evening after spending three nights in custody on federal charges.

Salazar, 63, was arrested Tuesday on two felony arson-related charges. Prosecutors allege he hired the leader of a local motorcycle gang in April 2024 to set fire to one of his namesake restaurants in central Fresno. Investigators say burned gas cans were found inside the building, and Salazar later collected nearly $1 million in insurance money.

Salazar pleaded not guilty Thursday during a federal court appearance. Prosecutors also filed additional charges after investigators discovered five firearms at his home, including four with serial numbers removed and one ghost gun.

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