Arson Attack Sparks Fire in Mansfield Flat
On 31 March 2022, chaos erupted at a flat on Garratt Avenue, Mansfield. Police rushed to the scene after reports of a fire inside the property. Just minutes later, 34-year-old Richardson was arrested for setting the blaze.
Heroic Officers Control Blaze Before Fire Brigade Arrives
Responding officers acted fast, grabbing a fire extinguisher to stop the flames from spreading. The fire brigade soon arrived to fully douse the fire and evacuate two women unharmed from the flat. Richardson had spent the night banging and attempting to kick down the door before escalating to arson by setting the letterbox ablaze shortly after 12:15 a.m.
Richardson Sentenced to Nearly Four Years Behind Bars
Richardson, imprisoned at HMP nottingham/" title="Nottingham" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Nottingham, pleaded guilty to reckless arson, possession of Class B drugs, and assault by beating. He appeared in court on 2 February and was sentenced to three years and nine months in jail.
His criminal record doesn’t stop there. In October 2021, he was caught carrying a Stanley knife and hammer in Ravensdale Road, Mansfield.
Police Slam Weapon-Carrying and Warn Public
“This must have been an incredibly frightening incident for the victims,” said Detective Constable Stephanie Cook.
She added, “Richardson spent that evening targeting the address, kicking the door and screaming before finally setting fire to the letterbox. The fire spread to a nearby curtain, putting the residents in immediate danger.”
Detective Constable Cook praised the quick actions of officers and firefighters for preventing injuries and further damage. She also stressed, “There is no excuse for carrying a knife and weapons in public. We take it extremely seriously and will crack down on anyone who arms themselves.”
