A Long Island firefighter was arrested and charged with setting a brush fire on purpose, according to police.
A burn ban has been put in place by New York until November 30 because of the extreme dryness in the region.
A volunteer firefighter from Medford, New York, was arrested for allegedly starting a brush fire in Suffolk County on Long Island, despite the extremely dry conditions in the region, according to police.
A 20-year-old volunteer firefighter from Medford was arrested by Suffolk County police for allegedly setting a fire in a wooded area at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday.
A car parked near a wooded area was damaged, according to police.
The Medford Fire District announced that Quiles was suspended from his job with the Medford Fire Department and, if convicted, will be terminated, according to a press release on social media.
"The Medford Fire District conducts arson background checks on potential members and there was no indication that this individual had any intention of setting fires. The incident is currently being investigated by the Suffolk County Police Department's Arson squad."
Court records indicate that Quiles pleaded not guilty to charges of fourth-degree arson, fifth-degree arson, and second-degree reckless endangerment.
Quiles was arrested and a statement from Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney was released.
"Unfortunately, under New York's 'bail reform,' intentionally setting fires in dangerously dry conditions and a statewide burn ban are not considered bail-eligible offenses, meaning my prosecutors cannot request bail on these charges. Our New York lawmakers need to address the flaws in our bail system and pass common sense reforms."
Due to dry conditions and recent wildfires, New York implemented a statewide burn ban lasting until November 30.
Outdoor fires for brush and debris, uncontained campfires, recreational fires, and open fires for cooking are not allowed due to the burn ban.
The governor of New York emphasized the significance of the burn ban in a social media post.
"It is crucial to avoid outdoor burning in New York at present. Immediately report any fires to authorities, stay vigilant, and keep track of your local forecast and law enforcement alerts."
us
You might also like
- In the Bryan Kohberger case, a judge in Idaho hears a defense motion regarding the murders.
- A fire broke out in Los Angeles County, prompting officials to issue evacuation orders.
- As fears of ICE raids intensify, a bustling Chicago district, often referred to as the "Mexico of the Midwest," has become a ghost town.
- Injured in a shooting at Antioch High School in Tennessee, three people were left in a lockdown.
- A German national who worked at the Pentagon during 9/11 was allegedly killed by a Vermont Border Patrol agent, according to the family.