Marshfield Man Sentenced for Setting Fire in Marshfield Business
Friday, January 23rd, 2015 -- 10:49 AM
-A Marshfield man accused of starting a fire in a Marshfield business after getting caught in a burglary was sentenced for the crime on Thursday.According to the Marshfield Police Department, Michael Straka broke into Avalon on 4th Street early in the morning on April 19th of last year. He was looking for synthetic marijuana. When he couldn't find any, he stole several pipes, a double bladed ax and attempted to steal a tip jar when he set off the alarm.
When police responded to the scene, Straka was coming out of the building, but quickly retreated back in side when he saw police. In order to try and distract the authorities he started a rack of clothing on fire. Police evacuated the tenants living above the building and Straka tried to escape through a window. Police attempted to capture him, but he went back in once again. Finally, the thick smoke forced him to leave.
Straka had several charges filed against him, but he was found guilty of, due to a no contest plea, arson. The remaining charges were dismissed and read in. Straka was sentenced to 6 months in jail and 5 years' probation. He was also given an imposed and stayed sentence of 5 years in prison, 3 years confinement and 2 years extend supervision, if he breaks any conditions of his probation. He also owes a $200 fine and over $1,100 in restitution.
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