TWO PLEAD GUILTY TO ARSON WILDFIRE IN EASTERN IDAHO

Two Idaho Falls residents have pled guilty to arson in setting a wildfire that occurred on public lands in Eastern Idaho in 2003.

On November 5, 2008, Brad Sims, 33, pled guilty in federal court to one felony count for setting a wildfire. On November 12, 2008, Jonathan Barrow, 28, pled guilty to one misdemeanor count of setting a fire. The lesser charge for Barrow resulted from his early cooperation. Sentencing for both individuals is scheduled for February 9, 2009, at the federal courthouse in Pocatello.

The 2,766 acre wildfire, which was started on July 19, 2003, burned a five-mile section of utility poles. It was started at mile marker 282 on U.S. Highway 20 between Idaho Falls and Arco. The federal government will seek restitution for damages to utilities and public lands. The amount will be determined by the judge at sentencing.

During the investigation, Bureau of Land Management Special Agents elicited the help of a Special Agent from the Department of Energy, Office of Inspector General, because the wildfire burned land of the Idaho National Laboratory west of Idaho Falls.

“We aggressively investigate all human-caused wildfires, especially when there is evidence that the fires were intentionally set,” said BLM Special Agent-in-Charge Loren Good. “Arsonists not only destroy private property and natural resources on public lands, but they also endanger the lives of the public and the firefighters who are responsible for suppressing the fires. Of paramount concern are the safety and security of our communities and our fire crews.”