Colfax man arrested for simple arson, other charges
A Colfax man was arrested in connection with a wildfire in Rapides Parish, according to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF).
Brian Todd Middleton, 38, of Flores Road in Colfax, reportedly fled the scene of a fire near 418 Cabra Hill Road in Rapides Parish on Sept. 10, according to LDAF, when LDAF and local fire crews, as well as Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office personnel arrived on the scene. Following an investigation by LDAF agents, an arrest warrant for Middleton was issued for simple arson.
The Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office arrested Middleton on Sept. 10 and booked into the parish jail on other charges and the warrant for simple arson was served while Middleton was in custody. Bond was set at $25,000 for the simply arson charge. According to the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office Inmate Inquiry website, Middleton was being held on charges of theft, criminal damaged to property less than $1,000, simple burglary and criminal trespass. Including the bond for simple arson, Middleton is being held on a total of $51,500 bond.
LDAF Commissioner MIke Strain said in a press release that fires can quickly spread and cause significant damage to Louisiana's forests and property.
"Our enforcement agents and fire personnel work closely with local law enforcement and fire departments to investigate wildfiresand determine their cause," Strain said in the release. "We take these incidents seriouslyand will continue to hold those responsible accountable."
Anyone who has additional information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the LDAF Enforcement Division or local law enforcement.
LDAF also notes that anyone accused of any crime is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
