Edwin Polanco, pictured above, was arrested by Yonkers Police around 1am for setting fires around southwest Yonkers.
Polanco, 34, of Yonkers, set several piles of garbage on fire, causing damage to a motor vehicle in the process. Yonkers Police Officers and Detectives quickly located Mr Polanco and apprehended him, charging him with one count of Arson 4th Degree (a Felony) and three counts of Arson 5th Degree (Misdemeanors). Four fires were located that were set by Mr Polanco, with further investigation possibly tying him to more.
Despite the obvious risk to life and property a crime such as Arson poses, due to bail restrictions, Polanco was required to be released with an appearance ticket.
“Arson is one of the most serious crimes,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. “While this person was not successful in imposing harm on anyone, the dangerous intent should be critically examined. Handing down just an appearance ticket is a slap on the wrist and needs to be addressed. The lack of consequences and punishment fuels criminals like this to continue to pose a danger to our community and quality of life.”
Police Commissioner Sapienza stated, “Our Officers and Detectives continue to get the job done despite the restrictions imposed on them by lawmakers. A person intentionally setting multiple fires in a highly populated area while people are sleeping should not be rewarded with freedom awaiting an arraignment.”
