Copeland arsonist sentenced

BONNERS FERRY — A Bonners Ferry man who pled guilty to setting hay bales on fire near Copeland on July 16 was sentenced to probation and incarceration.

Gary L. Brown, 19, was initially charged with a felony count of arson in the second degree, a misdemeanor of operating a motor vehicle under the influence, and a misdemeanor of a minor in possession of alcohol. The two misdemeanor charges are being dismissed.

On Oct. 25, Judge Barbara Buchanan sentenced Brown to four years of supervised probation and four years of suspended incarceration with one year determinate in a penitentiary and three years indeterminate. According to court documents, an issue for the court was probation or prison since this is not the type of behavior warranting prison.

Brown was also imposed 90 days of local jail time including 30 days in the sheriff’s inmate labor program and a $1,040.50 fine.

The felony count of arson could be reduced to a misdemeanor if Brown does good on probation according to court documents.

Documents also state that no charges will be brought against Brown for his involvement in Eastport area burglaries.