An individual, identified as Stacey Hinks, set fire to her former partner’s residence, destroying not only his property but also causing extensive damage to three adjacent homes. Following the arson, Hinks made a call to her ex to notify him of the blaze engulfing his house. The incident took place on Springfield Grove, Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire, on the evening of May 15.
The targeted ex-partner was left with nothing but the clothes on his back, losing all his possessions, including irreplaceable sentimental items. The neighboring properties also suffered severe destruction, leading to the displacement of their occupants. Fortunately, a doorbell camera captured the valiant efforts of neighbors who rushed to warn potential occupants. They successfully evacuated an 89-year-old woman from one of the homes, while the other two residents were confirmed to be away at the time of the incident.
The victim, profoundly impacted by the fire, expressed the irreparable loss of sentimental belongings and the emotional strain caused by the event. Another affected neighbor, a 90-year-old woman, lamented the destruction of her home, which held memories of her late husband. Both individuals highlighted the long-term repercussions of the arson on their lives and well-being.
Hinks pleaded guilty to the arson charge and was sentenced to four years and ten months in prison by York Crown Court. Detective Constable Karen Everitt of North Yorkshire Police emphasized the devastating consequences of Hinks’ actions on the victims, expressing relief that she was held accountable for her reckless behavior. The detective praised the swift actions of residents in ensuring the safety of those affected by the fire, averting potential tragic outcomes.