NEW CARROLLTON, Md. (AP) — A group of Maryland volunteer firefighters accused of setting fire to vacant structures have been charged with arson and other crimes.
The five men worked for West Lanham Hills Volunteer Fire Department. Prince George’s County Fire Chief Tiffany Green said Friday that they were indicted by a grand jury on a total of more 60 counts, including arson, conspiracy and misconduct in office.
WJLA-TV quoted State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy as saying that the fires were set at times when the suspects were on duty and could respond to them.
Property damages from all four blazes were estimated at $260,000 in total. Three civilians were also charged in the case.