NSW Police charge volunteer firefighter over string of fires in Hunter region

A volunteer firefighter has been accused of lighting a string of fires in the NSW Hunter region over the past two months before helping to put them out.

The 18-year-old man was arrested at his home in Aberglasslyn, near Maitland, about 8.20am on Wednesday.

He is accused of deliberately lighting fires in grassland across the Hunter region on several occasions in July and August 2023, then later heading to the fires as an NSW RFS volunteer to help extinguish the blazes.

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Police allege he deliberately lit fires in grassland at Weston, Pelaw Main, Bellbird, Greta, Aberglasslyn, Melville, and Cessnock.

He was taken to Maitland Police Station and charged with 15 offences, including 13 counts of intentionally cause fire and be reckless as to its spread and two property destruction offences.

The man was refused bail to appear at Maitland Local Court on Thursday.

Financial Crimes Squad Commander Acting Superintendent Richard Puffett said police were committed to investigating suspicious fires.

The 18-year-old was charged with 15 offences. Credit: NSW Police

“Our state has had a number of years of extreme weather from floods to fires – and the coming months will only get warmer,” he said.

“With a large amount of dry vegetation across our state, we are urging members of the public to be vigilant during this year’s bushfire season. If you see or notice anything suspicious, please contact police.”

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