Orange City, Iowa — A Sioux Center man has pleaded guilty to arson and criminal mischief.
According to court documents, 52-year-old Greg Aberson, of Sioux Center, pleaded guilty to arson in the second degree and criminal mischief in the third degree.
Arson in the second degree is a class C felony that could lead to 10 years of prison.
Aberson was accused of intentionally setting a house on fire in October by pouring about two-and-a-half gallons of gasoline inside the building and igniting it with a lighter.
The arrest followed a report of a fire at a residence located at 4911 Ironwood Avenue, about four miles south of Orange City.
When emergency crews arrived, the home was partially engulfed in flames, and heavy smoke was visible. Authorities stated that the home was unoccupied at the time, and no injuries were reported.
After the fire was extinguished, deputies determined the blaze appeared suspicious and launched an arson investigation, which led to Aberson’s arrest.
“The house was extensively damaged and was a total loss, with an estimated value exceeding $100,000,” stated authorities in court documents.
(With help from fellow Community First Broadcasting station KSOU in Sioux Center)
KIWA Staff Photo
