Drunk Woman Sets Flat Ablaze After Ordering Wine
Diane Wake, 58, from Harlow, Essex, has been slammed with a 32-month prison sentence after she ordered three bottles of wine and torched her own flat. The incident happened on 17th September 2023 at her home on Great Brays.
Wake claimed she was heavily intoxicated and has no memory of starting three separate fires inside the property. The blaze forced the evacuation of families living in the two-storey building.
Arson Charges and Court Drama
Wake pleaded guilty to arson while recklessly endangering lives. Prosecutor Nicholas Bleaney revealed she was drunk during the fire and risked the safety of multiple neighbours.
Judge Mary Loram KC at Chelmsford Crown Court tore into Wake’s actions. “This was a selfish way of you asking for help,” she said, condemning the danger Wake posed to innocent residents.
Defence Cites Mental Health, Judge Demands Accountability
Wake’s lawyer, Nick Barraclough, said she had no recollection of the event and showed deep remorse. He blamed a “degree of mental disorder” linked to her past difficulties.
Judge Loram acknowledged Wake’s motives came from misery, not malice, but insisted that wasn’t an excuse. “Your selfish and dangerous behaviour put others’ lives at risk,” the judge warned.
Prison Time for Dangerous Drunken Arsonist
Diane Wake will now serve her full 32-month sentence for the reckless and destructive fire, ending the nightmare for neighbours left fearing for their safety.
