Local father arraigned on arson charge

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June 18, 2008

<a href="mailto:avanvalkenburg@pressrepublican.com">By ANDREA VanVALKENBURG</a> The Press Republican Wed Jun 18, 2008, 06:10 PM EDT

ROUSES POINT — A local father has pleaded not guilty to arson in connection with a fire at his home last month.

Scott Palmer has been held at the Clinton County Jail since he was taken into custody last month for allegedly assaulting his wife and then igniting their home when she and three children were still inside.

Marcy Palmer and the three children, including Mr. Palmer’s 3-year-old son, were able to escape the Chapman Street residence without serious injury.

All four were taken to CVPH Medical Center for treatment, and Mrs. Palmer was later taken to Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington with jaw and knee injuries she allegedly sustained during an assault by her 35-year-old husband.

Firefighters were able to douse the flames that Mr. Palmer allegedly started by pouring gas throughout the two-story home and save the residence from extensive damage.

Authorities said Mr. Palmer fled the home after the fire and was located nearby a short time later.

He was initially arrested on a single felony charge of second-degree assault but has since been charged with second-degree arson as well.

He pleaded not guilty to the arson charge Tuesday evening in the Village of Rouses Point Court where he, his attorney, Marcia Moss, and District Attorney Andrew Wylie gathered for a felony hearing in the case.

Based on evidence presented during the hearing, Justice John LaBonte ruled there was reasonable cause for the two charges.

It was unclear Wednesday when Palmer will reappear to face the charges.

E-mail Andrea VanValkenburg at:

avanvalkenburg@pressrepublican.com