A 28-year-old man has been charged in connection with two separate arson incidents in Bletchley, Milton Keynes, police have confirmed.
Charges and court listing
Stephen Pocock, described by Thames Valley Police as having no fixed abode, faces multiple counts relating to fires at two addresses in Bletchley. The charge sheet, as reported by police, includes:
- Two counts of arson with intent as to whether life was endangered;
- One count of arson;
- One count of using threatening/abusive/insulting words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm or distress.
Pocock has been remanded in custody and is due to appear at Aylesbury Crown Court on 1 September.
Where and when the incidents occurred
Police say the charges relate to two separate fires reported on Monday 27 July, at addresses on Queensway and Maree Close in Bletchley. Investigating officers have stressed that, based on their enquiries so far, the incidents are being treated as isolated.
"We understand that these incidents will have caused concern in the local community," said Detective Sergeant Siobhan Jones. "We want to reassure the public that we believe that these were isolated incidents and has no wider risk."
Police response and community reassurance
Thames Valley Police have said there will be an increased presence of officers in the areas affected, with extra patrols to provide reassurance and to answer residents' concerns. Detectives are inviting anyone with information to come forward and speak to officers.
Local residents can expect visible patrols in Bletchley while enquiries continue. Police advice in incidents of this nature typically includes being vigilant, reporting suspicious behaviour and keeping a record of any relevant information for investigators.
Summary of reported charges
| Charge | Number |
|---|---|
| Arson with intent as to whether life was endangered | 2 |
| Arson | 1 |
| Use of threatening/abusive/insulting words or behaviour | 1 |
Police have asked anyone who witnessed the incidents, or who has dash-cam or doorbell footage that might assist, to contact Thames Valley Police as part of their ongoing enquiries.
Further updates will follow as the case progresses through the courts and as investigators release more information to the public.
