Appearing virtually from a correctional facility on Tuesday, a Huntsville man pleaded guilty to burning down a home in which he was a former tenant.
In Bracebridge ciminal court, Brandon Righetti, 29, pleaded guilty to arson and was sentenced to time served, which amounted to pre-sentence custody of 483 days.
Court heard that on April 30, 2019, the OPP received a call from the Huntsville Fire Department regarding a structure fire in Huntsville. On that day, Righetti and another man were both residing in the house when Righetti burst into the other occupant’s room saying that he smelled gas and they should both leave the house immediately. The men quickly gathered their belongings, court heard, and the second occupant later said he had seen a jerry can of gas on the back porch. Righetti then flicked a lit cigarette back into the house which quickly, “went up in flames in an explosive style.”
Court heard that Righetti had been living in the home as a tenant but had been told by the landlord he needed to find a new residence.
It was determined by the Fire Marshal’s Office that gasoline had been used in the fire, and it could be considered arson. An investigation also revealed that Righetti had made videos of himself starting fires within the residence just four days earlier.
The residence was completely destroyed, with damage estimated at just under $200,000.
In addition to the 483 days served in pre-trial custody, Righetti was also sentenced to 18 months of probation.
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Bill Beatty says
Arson is serious crime not only against the owner but to the volunteer firefighters whose duty is to prevent loss of life and property . The sentence is a joke !
John Oliver says
Another case of a slap on the wrist for a criminal act that could have caused the death of many. When we ever learn?
Harolyn Hussain (nee Hadaway) says
I hope that he doesn’t get mad at his next landlord !!!
Doug Tapley says
Instead of a stay in a government funded “hotel” why not require that the guilty party pay to rebuild the house. It might take a few years but it would be more fair to the landlord who is effectively out $200,000.00
Sandy McLennan says
“483 days served in pre-trial custody”
Am curious about this. Can the reporter follow up and say how this is possible? On the face of it, it sounds incredible in an “until proven guilty” justice system.
Phil Beacock says
What a joke our judges and our system is! Arson is considered a misdemeanour. Lives of FF’s are on the line here Mr Judge! Plus a total loss of a residence. Canadian justice, ya right! Safe day to all first responders! The system hasn’t got your back!
John Oliver says
To Sandy McLennan. Maybe you would like him to stay with you until his trial. I am sure he would be a model guest and tenant.
Brenda Begg says
To Doug Tapley: I like your suggestion: pay to rebuild the house.