Case Against Two Men Over Car Arson in Rēzekne Sent to Prosecutors

The State Police have finished the investigation into the deliberate setting on fire of a VW Sharan car in Rēzekne. Police have asked prosecutors to bring charges against two men, Delfi learned from the police.

The incident

Officers of the Ziemeļlatgale precinct of the State Police Latgale Regional Department received information on 4 July that a car had been intentionally set alight in the parking lot of an apartment building in Rēzekne. The vehicle's owner suffered damages of 1,100 euros.

Detentions and preventive measures

During the pre-trial investigation, police identified people who may have been involved in the offence. On 15 July a man born in 1983 was detained, and on 17 July a man born in 1980 was detained in Rēzekne. The latter was remanded in custody, while the other suspect was given non-custodial preventive measures.

Legal classification and penalty

The criminal proceedings were opened under Section 185, Part 2 of the Criminal Law, which covers intentional destruction or damage of another person's property by arson or in another way that endangers the public. The offence carries a prison sentence of up to 10 years, with or without probation supervision of up to three years.

The case materials against both men were handed to prosecutors on 28 September so that criminal prosecution could be initiated.

Police reminder

The State Police stress that damaging or destroying other people's property is not an acceptable way to resolve conflicts, as it can cause significant material losses and endanger the safety of others. Police also note that no one is considered guilty until guilt has been proven in accordance with the procedure established by law.