Man faces court over fire spree

YARRA Ranges Criminal Investigation Unit detectives have charged a 46-year-old Upwey man with lighting more than 15 hills fires in a spree dating back to July last year.
He was charged with 17 counts of intentionally causing a bushfire, with the offences occurring in the Upwey and Tecoma areas. Police called for witnesses late last month to the fires lit at the bottom of stringybark trees near schools and surrounding streets.
The blazes were all lit either early in the morning or late at night.
The Mail reported on 20 December that Belgrave police were on the lookout for firebugs.
Sergeant Mick Hall said police first noticed the dangerous behaviour six weeks prior and cautioned some local youths as part of Operation Firesetter.
Though there had been no reports of property damage, police were concerned about the possible threat to the community.
Sgt Hall warned local residents about what could happen if the blazes continued to be lit over summer.
“They’re lighting these trees in and around the school and CFA has been called out, but before you know it we’re going to have 42 degree days and there’s a real potential for bushfire,” he said.
Detectives from Yarra Ranges CIU are currently preparing their brief of evidence.
The 46-year-old man is yet to enter a plea but will appear in the County Court if he pleads guilty.
– Russell Bennett