Milford Haven woman admits arson (From Western Telegraph)

Milford Haven woman admits arson

6:20pm Monday 16th November 2009 in

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A woman set fire to her own home in what the prosecution claimed was a bid to be rehoused, a judge heard today (Monday).

Kerrie Anne Thomas, aged 37, had previously admitted arson and was due to stand trial at Swansea crown court accused of the more serious offence of arson being reckless as to whether the lives of her neighbours were put in danger.

Thomas, of Milton Crescent, Milford Haven, pleaded not guilty to this charge.

In court today, after comments by Judge Keith Thomas, Ieuan Rees, prosecuting, said that he had decided not to offer any evidence following a further review.

A formal verdict of not guilty was entered.

Mr Rees said the prosecution maintained that Thomas started the fire in the hope of being rehoused. He rejected the defence's argument that Thomas had been trying to commit suicide.

Thomas will be sentenced for arson. A probation officer will prepare a report into her backrgound for a sentencing hearing in early December.

She was granted bail until then.