Man remanded in custody over Telford car fires
A 22-year-old was this morning remanded in custody after appearing at Telford Magistrates Court charged with eight counts of arson in the Leegomery area of Telford.
The man was arrested on Wednesday afternoon in connection with the series of arson attacks on motor vehicles that have occurred in Leegomery and Hadley over the course of the past three weeks. He was charged overnight.
The man has been charged with seven counts of arson and one count of arson, recklessly endangering life.
He will appear at Shrewsbury Crown Court on 23 April.
Six other people have previously been arrested and released on police bail since the first fire on 27 March.
Chief Inspector Paul Moxley said:
"I'm pleased to be able to report this man has been charged but I would like to reassure local people that our investigative work into these incidents has not stopped.
"We are determined to trace every individual who has been involved in the recent series of arson attacks and a team of officers will continue to be dedicated to this investigation.
"I would also like to reassure local people that additional patrols will remain place in the area to provide continued support to them.
In addition I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone with further information or suspicions about these fires to come forward with the details as soon as they can so we can act on it.
"I would also ask anyone who sees suspicious behaviour around motor vehicles to continue to report it to us immediately.
"Anyone who believes they may have information about any of the recent incidents is asked to contact the police on 0300 333 3000. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111."
