Liam Jones, 29, with no fixed address, was sentenced to four years in prison at Swindon Crown Court on April 22 for deliberately setting fire to a barn in Bratton.
The incident occurred on January 24 when Jones set fire to the barn located on Quarry Lane. He then contacted the police to confess to the arson. The following day, Jones pleaded guilty at Swindon Magistrates’ Court.
In addition to his prison sentence, Jones will serve three years on licence and has been ordered to pay a £228 victim surcharge.
The fire destroyed essential winter feed and straw bedding, resulting in losses estimated at around £25,000 for the local farmer. Approximately 300 feed bales and 30 large straw bales were lost in the blaze.
“The impact this has had on me and my business has been vast,” the farmer said. “The fire caused stress to young cattle nearby, some even developed coughs from smoke inhalation. This could lead to long-term health issues and stunted growth.”
“I had to scramble to find alternative housing for the cattle, which was tough considering their different ages. The whole ordeal has been hugely stressful for my family, especially my two young children who were deeply upset by what happened.”
Crime Investigator Maria Doyle condemned the arson as “reckless and dangerous,” emphasizing the emotional and financial damage caused. “This was a serious offence that could have escalated even further. Wiltshire Police prioritise stopping rural crime and won’t hesitate to nail offenders like Jones,” she said.
Wiltshire Police encourage anyone affected by rural crime to report it immediately by calling 101, or 999 in emergencies.
Originally published by UKNIP.
