Two months. A dozen arsons. No arrests.
Somerset Police Chief Randy Cox said the department’s top priority is finding whomever is responsible for setting those mobile homes on fire at Cherry Lane Estates.
He said investigators are concerned about safety and now, they’re getting backup.
“It’s really been a partnership, effort from our department, county agencies, state agencies, and now support from the federal side too.”
Police said the serial arsonist will face serious consequences. If convicted, the suspect faces felony arson and risking catastrophe charges, not to mention multiple misdemeanors.
Each felony arson charge could mean at least 20 years in jail and a $25,000 fine.
“I see some pretty heavy criminal sanctions coming,” Chief Cox said.
Police are urging anyone with information to give them a call.
“Anyone who even has an inkling or a suspicion that they know who this is and is not sharing that, needs to really consider the risks they’re running in continuing to withhold that information,” Chief Cox said.
He added that investigators are still confident they will catch the arsonist eventually.
Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information that leads to an arresting conviction: You can call in anonymously: 1-800-4PA-TIPS.