2016: MAN JAILED FOR THROWING BURNING RAG INTO GIRLFRIEND'S FLAT IN DINGLE WALK, BOLTON
A 25-year-old man named Jacob Coleman has been sentenced to over six years in prison for deliberately setting fire to his girlfriend’s flat.Bolton Crown Court heard that Coleman caused extensive damage estimated at more than £23,000 after igniting a rag and hurling it into the property during an early-morning incident.
The court was informed that the attack followed a heated argument with his partner, Georgia Davies, with whom he shares a child, on July 29 of the previous year.
Prosecutor Peter Warne recounted how Miss Davies and her friend had to take refuge in the kitchen of the flat after Coleman, who had been drinking, threatened them and declared, “none of you is getting out of here,” before vandalizing the living space.
He then broke a window and left the scene.
Minutes later, Coleman returned with a rag soaked in an accelerant and threw it through the window, igniting the fire and causing significant damage.
Defense lawyer Mark Friend requested that the judge consider Coleman's guilty plea and suggested his criminal behavior was linked to his troubled relationship with Davies.
He argued that the defendant could lead a crime-free life if he stays away from her.
Judge Timothy Clayson addressed Coleman via video link, noting that the two women had already exited the flat, though it was unclear if Coleman knew they had.
The judge emphasized that the women might have still been inside, as the property was on the ground floor with other units nearby.
He also acknowledged the guilty plea but expressed concerns about Coleman's potential danger, citing his previous offenses and the reckless manner of his actions, which involved threats, damage, and the risk posed to the public.
Coleman was sentenced to six years and three months in custody, with eligibility for parole after serving approximately 4.5 years, and will be on license for three additional years.
An indefinite restraining order was also issued to prevent contact with Miss Davies.
