2012; WOMAN JAILED FOR SETTING EX-BOYFRIEND'S FLAT ON FIRE
A woman under the influence of alcohol caused a fire that damaged her former partner’s flat, risking the safety of nearby residents, and has been sentenced to prison.Shelley Fox set fire to the curtains in Mark Jackson’s apartment located on Bradford Avenue in Great Lever, motivated by his involvement with another woman.
After starting the blaze, she left the scene and announced the fire to passersby.
According to Bolton Crown Court, a neighbor named Zack Haji attempted to extinguish the flames and was injured, suffering burns to his arms.
Fox, aged 20 and from Aldersyde Street, Bolton, admitted to charges of arson and acting with recklessness regarding possible harm to life.
Sentencing, Recorder Andrew Thomas handed her a term of two-and-a-half years, describing her act as deliberate and malicious, intended to retaliate against her ex-partner for ending their relationship.
The court revealed that she arrived at the flats around 1:30 a.m.
on July 7 after consuming alcohol in Bolton town centre with her friend Jason Canty.
The communal entry was open, and Jackson’s apartment was accessible, although it was empty and redecorated, indicating he had moved out.
Fox declared her intent to cause harm, producing a lighter to ignite the curtains and blinds inside the flat.
She then stepped outside, called emergency services, and shouted to alert others nearby.
Her defence, represented by Richard Dawson, stated that her reckless conduct was foolish and irresponsible.
He also noted her efforts in notifying others and contacting firefighters.
Dawson explained that Fox is dealing with significant personal difficulties, particularly related to alcohol use, and emphasized she has no prior criminal record.
However, the judge decided that because of the seriousness of her actions, only a custodial sentence was appropriate.
