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Saturday, April 28, 2007 12:27 AM CDT
Neoga man faces arson charges in insurance scam



NEOGA — A Neoga man faces prosecution for allegedly setting fire to his home to profit from the insurance payout.

Cumberland County State’s Attorney Barry Schaefer filed arson charges last month against Randy D. Potter, 51, in the aftermath of the Feb. 19 fire at his residence, 692 Maple St.

“It gutted the north end of the house,” said Neoga Fire Chief Bruce Drennan. “The fire got up in the attic, and (firefighters) couldn’t get to it.”

According to Neoga Police Chief Gerry Mattern, the charges followed an investigation by the state fire marshal’s office.

The first count of residential arson, a Class 1 felony, alleged that Potter “knowingly totally damaged” his own residence.

The second count of arson, a Class 2 felony, alleged that Potter “by means of fire, and with the intent to defraud an insurer, Shelter Insurance Agency, knowingly damaged” his home.

Drennan said the severe damage did not extend to a new addition to the residence.

The case “will be going to a preliminary hearing soon,” said Schaefer.

He said Potter has received notice of the charges against him.

Potter’s attorney, Fred Johnson of Mattoon, could not be reached for comment.

Contact Nathaniel West at nwest@jg-tc.com or 238-6860.


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