Man Gets Probation for 3,400-Acre Blaze
From Times Wire Reports
A man was sentenced to two years of probation for setting a fire in his yard that spread out of control and destroyed 30 homes.
Thomas Barnhart, 55, of Racine, told investigators he started the fire inside a ring of concrete blocks but it jumped the ring. He and his girlfriend used a shovel, rake and clothing to try to put it out, but it grew out of control and burned 3,400 acres.
In addition to probation, Barnhart also must make a public apology, pay restitution and abstain from alcohol.
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