Fire destroys Lennox Agricultural Memorial Community Centre, Napanee's 'Old Arena' - Photo by Emily Chatwood/myFM News
Jay Bradley appeared in Napanee Court this morning (July 29, 2024) and has plead guilty to two counts of arson and one count of criminal harassment.
Bradley was arrested in November 2023 following the devastating fire at the Lennox Agricultural Memorial Community Centre on York Street, and fire at the detached garage at the home of the Ag Society’s President.
Appearing before Justice Geoff Griffin, Bradley admitted to setting fires on October 23, and also admitted to harassing Carol McKinley with threatening calls, emails, and social media posts.
Originally scheduled for a preliminary hearing on November 1, that date will now be used for Bradley’s sentencing.
Crown attorney Kerry Watson detailed Bradley’s actions leading up to the fires. In 2019, Bradley rented the Community Centre to run Disco Ball Events but was locked out in summer 2023 after failing to pay rent. Surveillance footage and evidence linked Bradley to the fires, including a car seen at the scene and gasoline containers found in his possession.
Bradley acknowledged his guilt and responsibility. Justice Griffin noted the severe impact of the fires on the community, especially since the damage to the arena and McKinley’s home was significant.
Bradley will remain in custody and be sentenced on November 1, with the court considering his guilty plea, which spares the victims from testifying.
Written by Emily Chatwood
