ATHENS — A Springfield man faces multiple felony charges including arson following a structure fire in Athens early Saturday morning.
Benjamin E. Stocker, 33, was arrested after Vermont State Police investigated a fully involved structure fire reported on Valley Cemetery Way.
Athens Fire Department and multiple surrounding communities responded to extinguish the blaze at 7:39 a.m. on March 29.
Troopers conducted an investigation at the scene that led to Stocker’s arrest at his Springfield residence.
Members of the Vermont State Police Tactical Services Unit and Crisis Negotiation Unit assisted in apprehending Stocker.
Stocker faces numerous charges including arson, first-degree aggravated domestic assault, violation of conditions of release, negligent operation, violation of an abuse prevention order, and aggravated stalking.
Additional charges include unlawful mischief, prohibited possession of a firearm, unlawful restraint, possession of stolen property, larceny, cruelty to a child, reckless endangerment, and disorderly conduct.
Stocker was issued a criminal citation and ordered held on $50,000 bail.
He is scheduled to appear in Vermont Superior Court, Windham Criminal Division, on March 31 at 12:30 p.m. to answer to the charges.
