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Valle Crucis Arson Suspect Sentenced To 30+ Years In Prison

Last Updated on March 21, 2017 8:29 pm

The man arrested for setting fire to the Valle Landing complex was sentenced Tuesday to over 30 years in prison.

According to multiple media reports, Benjamin Williford plead guilty to second degree murder, first degree arson and three counts of assault. According to another published report other charges included: three counts of assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, one count of maintaining a vehicle for keeping or selling a controlled substance, one count of maintaining a place for keeping or selling a controlled substance and one count of possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver marijuana.

It was revealed in court Tuesday that deputies had infrared video from a nearby camera of the fire being set and also a gun left at the scene with Williford's DNA as evidence in the case, according to WSOC-TV. The Watauga Democrat reports that the motive was because an employee of one of the building’s shops owed Williford approximately $900.

Williford was sentenced as part of a plea deal, and was ordered to pay nearly $535,000 in restitution to the victims and families.

Published articles from WataugaRoads.com & WataugaOnline.com related to the fire:

Multiple Fire Departments Working Fire Beside Valle Crucis School

Details And Arrest Made in Fatal Valle Crucis/Valle Landing Fire

GoFundMe Accounts Set Up To Raise Money For Valle Crucis Fire Victims, Investigation Continues

“Owed Money” Possible Motive In Valle Crucis Fire

More Charges Filed In Fatal Valle Crucis Fire

 

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