In Hagerstown, Maryland, a local man faces charges after threatening to burn down the residence he was renting. Randy L. Sigler, 65, was charged with one count of arson threat following his arrest on Friday.
The incident occurred around 2:00 PM when the Washington County Sheriff’s Office was called to a dispute at a property in the 13600 block of Grandview Drive. According to deputies, the conflict began when the landlords, who were preparing to sell the property, informed Sigler of their plans while clearing out the basement.
Sigler reportedly reacted angrily to the news, threatening to burn down the house. The seriousness of the threat prompted the involvement of the State Fire Marshal’s Office, which after investigating, confirmed the threat’s credibility.
Sigler was subsequently located, arrested, and transported to the Washington County Detention Center. He was later released on personal recognizance.
The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office highlights that making verbal or written threats to destroy property is a misdemeanor offense. If convicted, the charge carries a potential penalty of up to ten years in prison and a $10,000 fine.