A Columbus, Georgia man has been sentenced for deliberately setting a wildfire that burned more than 100 acres in Talbot County.
Law enforcement officers with the Georgia Forestry Commission took William Shane Harvey into custody near the fire in March. He was charged with arson in the second degree. Harvey pled guilty to the charge on September 14 in Talbot Superior Court. He was ordered to serve five years’ probation and to pay victim restitution.
No injuries were reported in the 108-acre fire. However, the fire destroyed two outbuildings, damaged two residences, and led to property damage for 11 victims.
GFC investigators are certified by the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training Council. They have extensive, specialized training to conduct investigations of wildland fires and other forestry-related crimes. Penalties for arson convictions can carry fines and prison sentences of up to 20 years.
To report criminal forestry activity, timber theft, or arson fires, contact GFC investigators on the Arson Hotline at 1-(800) GA-TREES (428-7337).
For more information about services of the Georgia Forestry Commission, visit GaTrees.org.
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