BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - A Grand Forks man accused of starting a fire that extensively damaged a Bismarck apartment building has been sentenced to 1 ½ years of probation after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors.
The Bismarck Tribune reports 46-year-old Eduardo Rodriguez originally was charged with arson and two criminal mischief felonies.
Burleigh County State’s Attorney Julie Lawyer said Friday the arson charge was reduced to misdemeanor reckless endangerment when lab tests about the origin of the fire were not conclusive and Rodriguez’ substance abuse on the night of the fire made intent difficult to prove.
The June 5 fire caused more than $300,000 in damage to the apartment building. Authorities said all residents of the 24-unit building made it out safely when the fire broke out.
Rodriguez did not live in the building. He told police he was being chased when he went to the apartment.
Rodriguez was on probation in Grand Forks County at the time of the fire after pleading guilty to terrorizing in May.
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