SOUTHEND MAN JORDAN WOOD JAILED AFTER ARSON SPREE AND THREATS
A domestic abuser named Jordan Wood, aged 29 from Bunters Avenue, Shoebury, had been involved in a series of serious offences including threatening to kidnap and rape his ex-partner, as well as committing arson in April.Despite being assessed by the probation service as posing a high risk of serious harm to the public, particularly women, he was released on bail months earlier.
During April, Wood set fire to his own flat and car, causing extensive damage valued at tens of thousands of pounds.
The incident was provoked by ongoing tensions with residents; he had threatened a female neighbour after she complained about the smell of cannabis and made stabbing motions towards her.
The arson attacks caused thick smoke, injuries, and trauma among residents, with one victim fearing she could have been burned alive.
Wood also set fire to two cars, including one belonging to the brother of a woman he had threatened to rape, leading to even more destruction and causing a pregnant woman to suffer a miscarriage after the stress.
He was arrested at the scene, initially claiming the fire was accidental, but CCTV footage proved otherwise.
Wood has a criminal record with 37 prior offences, mainly as a juvenile, but also including recent convictions for possessing an offensive weapon and threatening behavior towards another pregnant woman.
He was sentenced to six years in prison for the arsons and an additional two months for the June threats.
His behaviour was described as chaotic and unstable, with a background of drug problems and childhood trauma.
Despite managing gaps between offences and holding a job previously, his recent conduct has been highly damaging.
He appeared via video link from Chelmsford Prison during sentencing and was given a six-year sentence for arson plus two months for earlier threats.
