Man pleads not guilty to burning girlfriend

CALDWELL (AP) - A Nampa man who authorities say poured lighter fluid on his girlfriend and set her on fire has pleaded not guilty to felony aggravated arson and battery.

Jesus Montes, 32, made the plea Friday in 3rd District Court in southwest Idaho.

Police said Montes set his girlfriend on fire after an argument on Dec. 10. Authorities said she remained in critical condition days later.

Prosecutors said he has previous convictions for domestic battery in the presence of a child and driving under the influence.

Montes is being held on $1 million bail. His pretrial conference is set for Feb. 21.