COURTESY
CLAREMONT – Acting New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Max Schultz, Claremont Police Chief Mark Chase, and Claremont Fire Chief Bryan Burr have announced an arson conviction for a fire that occurred on Sept. 9, 2014 at the former Joey’s on the River Restaurant, which was located at 398 Main Street.
On July 11, Santo F. Lampiasi, 67, of East Street in Claremont entered a guilty plea for one count of felony arson. Superior Court Justice Brian T. Tucker sentenced Lampiasi to serve 12 months stand committed (i.e, he must serve his sentence in jail) at the Sullivan County House of Corrections and to 5 years of probation upon his release. Lampiasi was also ordered to pay $1,240 in fines.
“Arson cases can be very challenging to solve and successfully prosecute. While this case took almost four years to resolve, it is a very normal occurrence for these complex cases to remain open for two to three years or more. Our ability to combat these crimes is a direct result of the innovative efforts and the collaborative multi-agency dedication to stay the course and hold those responsible accountable,” said Deputy State Fire Marshal Keith Rodenhiser.
Between 2010 and 2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 261,330 fires which were intentionally set. Losses resulting from these fires included 440 civilian deaths, 1,310 civilian injuries, and $1 billion in direct property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Agency.
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