Guilty verdict on Lancaster arsonist
A convicted fire raiser has been found guilty of an arson attack on flats in Lancaster when residents had to be rescued.
Christian Hodgson, 25, was found guilty of arson with intent to endanger life after a three day trial at Preston Crown Court.
Hodgson had denied the arson attack where he lived at Hubert Place - which belonged to Stoneham Homes - and endangering the lives of six
residents.
The court heard that he was jailed in 2002 for arson.
The jury had been told by prosecutor Miss Alexandra Simmonds that the fire took place in the early hours of January 19.
Petrol had been poured in the lobby area and set alight blocking the only means of escape for the residents.
They were rescued after the fire brigade was called.
Petrol was used as an accelerant and some was found in the u-bend of a sink in Hodgson's room, and also on his shoe.
The fuel had been put in a cider bottle, and a bottle of the same brand was found in Hodgson's room.
Hodgson did not give evidence during his trial.
The court heard he had a previous conviction for reckless arson at a residential property in 2001 and was sentenced to eight years custody for that offence.
Judge Stuart Baker asked for reports to address dangerousness and any psychiatric element.
Hodgson was remanded in custody and will be sentenced at date to be fixed.
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Weather for Lancaster
Wednesday 08 February 2012
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