Arsonist James Parker Jailed After Setting Flats Ablaze
James Parker, 38, from Queens Square, Chippenham, has been sentenced for deliberately starting a fire in a block of flats. The blaze ripped through an upstairs flat on August 8, causing extensive damage and risking lives.
Guilty Plea Cuts Sentence But Danger Was Real
Parker pleaded guilty earlier to arson, reckless endangerment, and criminal damage. He was sentenced yesterday (9 December) at Swindon Crown Court. His sentence was reduced due to an early guilty plea and consideration of his mental health.
Police Praise Tough Sentence for Community Safety
“Parker deliberately started a fire in a block of six flats,” said DC Hannah Agate of Wiltshire Police CID. “Apart from the extensive damage he caused, there was a real chance someone could have been seriously hurt or killed. Thankfully, no one was hurt. Wiltshire Police will always robustly pursue those who put our community in danger.”
The case highlights police commitment to protecting local residents from reckless threats.
