A man has today (6 Feb) been sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court for arson at a property on Denton Street, Carlisle.
James McGlinchey, 61, of Denton Street, Carlisle was jailed to six years for arson with intent to endanger life.
The court heard on 22 September 2025 officers were called to a concern for welfare at a flat on Denton Street, Carlisle.
Officers attended and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service were already at the scene to a large fire at the property.
McGlinchey was already out of the property at another address and was being treated by North West Ambulance Service.
He was arrested after making several comments such as ‘Can’t believe I set fire to my own flat’.
Speaking on the case Temporary Detective Constable Anna Pickthall said McGlinchey made significant comments at the scene about being responsible for the fire.
“Investigations found that McGlinchey had purchased diesel the night before the fire before pouring the accelerant around his flat and setting it alight.
“His actions could have had fatal consequences and luckily no one was injured and the surrounding flats were evacuated.”