Siena increasing security after arrest of student for alleged arson
Video Player is loading.
A Siena College freshman from Saratoga is accused of starting three separate fires in a dorm.
Joshua Thomas, 19, allegedly poured rubbing alcohol on the ground and used a lighter to start a fire on April 25 just after 3 a.m. outside a dorm room in Hines Hall. Two female students were sleeping inside the room, according to the Albany County District Attorney's Office.
Siena College told NewsChannel 13 they are increasing security in Hines Hall, after three separate fires that were believed to be set on purpose.
The damage done in the residence hall was minimal, the college said.
There were scorch marks on a couch and some floor tiles, as well as a tissue dispenser.
A suspect, Joshua Thomas, 19, was arrested. Thomas is charged with two counts of arson and one count of attempted arson. He has pleaded not guilty.
His academic status is pending review, the college said.