Former fire department administrator James Bartels from southeastern Ohio has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for starting 26 wildfires in Wayne National Forest. The fires, which burned 1,300 acres of federal and state land, were ignited by Bartels using a lighter to “give the boys something to do” after he resigned from his position at the Greenfield Township Volunteer Fire Department. The fires were started in 2022, and Bartels was arrested after being spotted near the forest in a truck registered to him, with fires starting shortly after.
Despite resigning as a 911 dispatcher for Gallia County, Bartels was connected to at least 17 additional fires in the following days. Witnesses saw him near where fires started, and his vehicle’s infotainment system confirmed his presence at the ignition sites. Bartels also had a background as a police officer in various law enforcement agencies. Over 100 firefighters from multiple states were called in to battle the blazes, costing over $638,000 in damages.
In court, Bartels confessed to his actions and was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Algenon Marbley. This case highlights the serious consequences of arson and the impact it can have on public lands, as well as the resources required to combat wildfires. Bartels’ actions not only endangered lives and property but also posed a significant threat to the environment.
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