Worker torched Faversham cafe because of HIS promotion
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Daniel Freeman torched
Mickey's Diner after getting promoted
by Paul Hooper
A Faversham man who torched a cafe on the A2 because of a
grudge has been jailed for five years.
Daniel Freeman, 23, wanted revenge because his bosses at
Mickey’s Diner, in Upper Harbledon, had promoted him.
Canterbury Crown Crown heard he resented the extra
responsibility and decided to set the building alight - causing
£180,000 damage.
The blaze at the eatery - close to a petrol station
- also put six people out of work.
Judge Simon James told Freeman: “This was an offence that was
committed out of spite and revenge.
"It’s motive was to punish your former employer for the fact
you felt that you had been asked to do work beyond your
capability.
“Feeling angry that she was not taking your stress and anxiety
seriously, you quite deliberately and methodically set about
burning down her business premises.”
The judge said his reaction had been “wholly disproportionate”
and one that could have had catastrophic consequences.
He added: “As it was the damage that you caused reduced the
premises to a state where they could no longer be used.
“You caused over £180,000 worth of damage and led to the
business being closed until today and at least six people losing
their livelihoods.
"The offence was committed in breach of trust and was
premeditated.”
Daniel Freeman was
sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court
Alice Dobbie, prosecuting, said Freeman - who had
changed him name from Burton for family reasons - started the
fire on July 30 last year.
A few days later, Freeman, of Buttermere, Faversham, went
into a police station and confessed to going to the restaurant
when it was closed, taking £800 from the till and then setting it
alight.
He later texted the manageress and apologised, promising
to hand himself in at a local police station.
The prosecutor said one of the owners, Michael Schenbri, said
the fire had left the family £50,000 out of pocket and “their lives
in tatters”.
Ged O’Connor, defending, said: “He has expressed deep regret
for what he did.”
The judge told Freeman: "Had this fire spread to the
petrol station next door it could have been a major
life-threatening incident.
"You were so wound up in the bubble of your own self pity that
you gave no thought the potential consequence to your
action.”
Freeman pleaded guilty to arson and theft.
Saturday, February 11 2012
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