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Kentucky Division of Forestry
Firefighter Pleads Guilty to Arson Charge
Commonwealth of Kentucky
Energy and Environment Cabinet
Steven L. Beshear, Governor Len Peters, Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lynn Brammer
1-800-866-0555
Firefighter Pleads Guilty to Arson Charge
Forestry firefighter to receive two and half years in prison
FRANKFORT, KY – March 11, 2009 – A former Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) firefighter accused of setting forest fires last November pleaded guilty to the crime on March 3, 2009. Kentucky State Police say witnesses observed 30-year-old Christopher Little deliberately setting a fire in the Hellier community of Pike County. Little accepted a plea deal and will serve two-and-a-half years in prison. Prosecutors indicate that he will receive credit for three months already served and the rest will be probated. KDF terminated his employment and began a full investigation of the charges last November.
“Arsonists are not tolerated and will be prosecuted accordingly,” said Leah MacSwords, KDF division director. “We have hard-working, dedicated forest wardens who have extensive training and experience in fighting wildland fire and it is unfortunate that this incident would detract from the outstanding efforts of our employees.”
Forest arson is a Class D felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. To report forest arson, call the Target Arson Hotline at 1-800-27-ARSON. Citizens may also contact their local law enforcement officers, the Kentucky State Police or the Kentucky Division of Forestry at 1-800-866-0555.
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