Prosecutor: Prolific Arsonist Jailed in Pennsylvania

A northeastern Pennsylvania man suspected of setting more than 20 fires is behind bars on arson charges.

Investigators in Lackawanna County say 48-year-old Stephen Giacobbe is the most prolific arsonist in the county’s history.

Prosecutors charged Giacobbe on Wednesday with setting six blazes but say he has been linked to 20 other fires for which the statute of limitations has expired.

Among the six fires Giacobbe was charged in Wednesday are three vacant homes. He was also charged last month with setting fire to a closed restaurant.

Prosecutors say Giacobbe began setting fires when he was 17.

Giacobbe told reporters after his arraignment he’s sorry for some of the fires, but said others were “a favor” to the community.

Giacobbe is being held on $75,000 bail.