My question involves labor and employment law for the state of: California

My son has worked at a job for 6 years - good employee. No problems.

Outside the job on his own time, he was arrested and is now facing some jail time. (arson charge - he lit a newspaper on fire at a bus stop) No damage - no injuries.

He was honest with his employer and told them (I didn't want him to but he thought he had a good working relationship with them) they have suspended him without pay. He has a court date on March 12 where he will know more of his future.

Until then, he wants to know if he has his job or what. His manager told him it doesn't look good and that he should just quit. and that they will give him a good recommendation.

On the other hand, if he quits, with his legal problems and the bad job market, he would rather just let them fire him.

He thinks he could get unemployment. Does anyone know if he could?

Is it wise to just let them fire you? Or do all employers try to trick some into quitting so they won't be able to collect unemployment?

Its a shame because he was a good worker. He did a horribly dumb think and its going to cost him a lot.

Thanks