Georgia: Firefighters Arrested and Charged in Irwin County Arson Case

Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John W. Oxendine said four additional arrests have been made in a serial arson case involving Irwinville volunteer firefighters, and additional charges have been filed against the four suspects already arrested.

Eight suspects have been charged in a series of arson fires dating back to last summer, Oxendine said, involving two houses, vehicles, and several woodland and grass fires.

“It’s especially tragic when an arsonist turns out to be a firefighter, someone sworn to protect the public,” Oxendine said.

Chief Rusty Thomas has been charged with two counts of first-degree arson, one count second-degree arson, two counts third-degree arson, one count false statements and one count obstruction of justice, Oxendine said.

Firefighter Eric Lee Cowart has been charged with one count first-degree arson and one count obstruction of justice and also faces probation violation charges, according to Oxendine.

Oxendine said firefighter Roy Brown Jr. has been charged with one count first-degree arson; firefighter Justin McCurdy has been charged with two counts first-degree arson; and firefighter Daniel Spires has been charged with one count first-degree arson and one count second-degree arson.

Firefighter Joe Maye has been charged with one count first-degree arson, one count third degree arson, and one count obstruction of justice, Oxendine said.

Firefighter Sandy Mobley has been charged with one count party to a crime and firefighter Kevin Burton has been charged with one count second-degree arson, according to Oxendine.

First-degree arson is a felony, with a penalty of one to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $50,000.

Source: Georgia Insurance Department