Youths cited in arson case

POLSON — Authorities confirmed on Monday that three juvenile suspects have been cited for burglary, criminal mischief and trespassing in connection with the June 6 arson incident.

A pair of recent anonymous tips acquired through the Crime Stoppers line led the Polson Fire Department and Polson Police Department’s joint-investigation to three juvenile suspects for their involvement in setting fire to a home under construction at 203 10th Avenue, causing an estimated $40,000 in damages to the structure.

Polson Fire Chief John Fairchild has confirmed that the house fire was caused by “an open flame set to burnable materials.”

Two 14-year-old boys and a female of the same age were interviewed by Detective Alan Booth on June 18 and allegedly corroborated information investigators had discovered in the arson case. The three individuals were subsequently cited and Chief Juvenile Probation Officer Barbara Monaco will be reviewing the case with the county attorney’s office to discuss what the next step in the case will be.

Fairchild said two unexplained fires set in close proximity to the home under construction are also currently under investigation by the department for any relation to the arson incident. The chief added that to his understanding, the arson fire was not of a vindictive nature to the property owners, but simply “got out of hand.”

Fairchild commended the police department for its cooperative effort, and extended gratitude towards the anonymous callers whose tips aided greatly in the investigation.

“I’m a big believer in it being important that we all pitch in and do our part, and I’m very thankful that for the people’s help and I appreciate their getting involved,” Fairchild said. “We followed through on our end and a 13-day investigation with results, to me, is exceptional work.”