Montana Man Charged with Arson Pleads

A Montana man charged with starting a string of fires that damaged a home and several vehicles in Billings has pleaded guilty to felony criminal endangerment.

Sergio Nino, 22, entered the plea Tuesday as part of a deal reached with prosecutors. District Judge Gregory Todd scheduled sentencing in the case for Jan. 12.

The 22-year-old Nino was initially charged with four counts of felony arson for his role in fires set July 8, 2008. The fires damaged a home, a nearby shed and two cars.

Under terms of the plea deal, prosecutors will recommend that he receive a six-year deferred sentence and pay at least $8,000 in restitution.

Nino’s cousin, Hector Gonzales, 22, has also pleaded guilty to four counts of criminal endangerment by accountability for his role in the fires.