Car fires suspect charged with 18 counts of arson

A burnt out car on a drivewayImage source, PA Media
Image caption,

Emergency crews were called to multiple fires in the early hours of 15 May 2023

  • Published

A man has been charged with 18 counts of arson following a spate of car fires in Dorset in 2023.

Emergency crews were called to multiple fires in Broadstone, Wimborne and Merley in the early hours of 15 May.

Dorset Police said it received 18 reports of damage to vehicles and property between 01:00 and 03:00 BST.

David Robert Giddins, 45, from Wimborne, is due before Poole magistrates on Friday.

Police said incidents were reported in Wentworth Drive, Oakley Hill, Oakley Road, Merley Way, Stour Walk, New Borough Road, Grove Road and Leigh Road.

Ch Supt Julie Howe, Local Policing Commander for Dorset County, said: "This has been a complex investigation.

"We would urge members of the public to refrain from speculation or online commentary while these proceedings are active."

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